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From the steps of Palais des Festivals to the global cinema stage, India made history at the Cannes Film Festival 2025. This year wasn’t just about movie premieres, it was a celebration of everything India stands for: powerful storytelling, timeless tradition, and a bold, unapologetic sense of style.
Whether it was the emotional standing ovation for Homebound, the return of Satyajit Ray’s magic, or the spectacular sarees and handwoven masterpieces on the red carpet, Cannes 2025 became a proud chapter in India’s global journey.
One of the biggest moments this year came when Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound premiered in the Un Certain Regard Section. Starring Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa, the film set in rural North India touched hearts with its story of friendship, dignity, and pain. The audience responded with a rare 9-minute standing ovation.
Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, who supported the film as executive producer, called it “a significant contribution to Indian cinema.”
“This is Indian storytelling at its finest, real, rooted, and relevant.”
1. Wowed in a Tarun Tahiliani tissue corset set, woven in Varanasi.
2. Walked the red carpet in a mint-green Anamika Khanna gown with pearls and gems.
3. For the amfAR Gala, she wore a 1989 vintage YSL jacket paired with an Anamika Khanna skirt, a nod to both heritage and high fashion.
Choose a custom Gucci outfit inspired by the silhouette of a saree, melding Italian luxury with Indian grace.
Turned heads with a daring gown featuring braided hair details, adding a bold twist to traditional styling.
In her 22nd Cannes appearance, she brought regal elegance in a white-and-gold Banarasi sari by Manish Malhotra.
Followed it up with a Gaurav Gupta velvet gown topped with a Banarasi brocade cape.
Served looks in a maroon velvet bandhgala and a vintage Armani vest, styled by Alexander Roth.
Made structured shoulders fashionable with Kaushik Velendra and a striking houndstooth blazer.
Glimmered in a Rahul Mishra ombré gown paired with a Chopard diamond necklace.
The breakout star of Lapataa Ladies stunned in a Jade by Monica & Karishma black gown with gold kasab embroidery.
Showcased a drama with a Rohit Bal piece that took 410 hours to make, plus a fitted Manish Malhotra ensemble.
This year’s festival wasn’t just about fashion. Indian cinema left a lasting impact on the screen and in conversations.
Satyajit Ray’s classic Aranyer Din Ratri (1970) was screened as part of the Cannes Classics section. With a new digital restoration, the film received a standing ovation, attended by stars Sharmila Tagore and Simi Garewal.
Acclaimed director Wes Anderson, a fan of Ray, introduced the film and praised it as “a timeless journey of self-discovery.”
It was about young stars, veteran icons, and visionary filmmakers standing shoulder to shoulder on the world stage.
From Varanasi looms to French carpets, from rural stories to global screens, India is not just participating anymore. We’re leading.
