The 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival is in full swing from May 13 to May 24, and all eyes are on India. With this year’s powerful theme — “Lights, Beauty and Action” — Cannes 2025 is celebrating confidence, self-worth, and global diversity. And who better to represent India on this grand stage than two of Bollywood’s brightest stars — Alia Bhatt and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan?
Cannes is not just about cinema anymore. It’s also the ultimate runway for fashion, identity, and culture. Indian stars have not only arrived — they’re owning the red carpet.
✨ Alia Bhatt: A Shimmering Debut
2025 marks Alia Bhatt’s first appearance at the Cannes Film Festival, and she made sure it was nothing short of spectacular. Representing L’Oréal Paris as their global brand ambassador, Alia brought youthful energy, grace, and bold fashion statements to the French Riviera.
In Schiaparelli: Modern Royalty
Alia began her Cannes journey in a nude-ivory mermaid gown by Schiaparelli. The fitted silhouette, intricate embroidery, and structured corset gave her a regal presence. She kept her look clean and minimal — a slicked-back bun, soft makeup, and delicate earrings. The simplicity of the styling allowed the elegance of the gown to truly shine.
In Armani Privé: Daring & Dramatic
For her second appearance, Alia chose Giorgio Armani Privé — a navy-blue strapless gown sparkling with Swarovski crystals. The dramatic twist? A 1920s-inspired beaded head cap, which turned heads and drew applause for its vintage charm. Her soft, dewy makeup and subtle accessories made this look a showstopper.
In Gucci: A Saree Reimagined
In a cultural tribute, Alia stunned in a custom Gucci ensemble inspired by the Indian saree. The outfit featured a draped pallu-style design over a crystal-studded blouse and skirt, paying homage to Indian tradition while blending it with high-fashion aesthetics. This look stood out not only for its beauty but for its deeper cultural meaning — East truly met West on the red carpet.
Alia’s Cannes debut wasn’t just a fashion moment — it was a statement of global identity, heritage, and elegance.
👑 Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: Queen of Cannes
If Cannes has a reigning monarch, it’s Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. For over two decades, she has graced the red carpet with timeless elegance, and in 2025, she returned to reclaim her crown.
In Falguni Shane Peacock: Futuristic Diva
Aishwarya made a bold entrance in a silver gown by Falguni Shane Peacock. The dress featured dramatic shoulder structures, a trailing cape, and shimmering textures. It felt otherworldly — like something from a sci-fi fantasy, and she wore it with confidence only years of red carpet experience can bring.
In Gold Royalty: A Nod to Heritage
For her second appearance, Aishwarya wore a golden lehenga-style gown with detailed embroidery and traditional Indian design. The outfit was paired with layered jewelry and a sheer dupatta draped gracefully across her shoulder. She looked like a queen — not just in dress, but in demeanor.
Her looks at Cannes are more than just high fashion. They reflect India’s evolving style narrative, where tradition blends with modernity, and where elegance doesn’t scream — it speaks.
🇮🇳 Beyond Fashion: India’s Moment at Cannes
The presence of Alia Bhatt and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan at Cannes 2025 marks something deeper than just another red carpet moment. It’s about representation. It’s about visibility. It’s about showing that Indian women — and Indian culture — belong at every global platform, not as guests, but as rightful participants and leaders.
From Alia’s modern debut to Aishwarya’s seasoned elegance, India has made a striking statement this year:
We are here, we are proud, and we are unforgettable.
As the festival continues, all eyes remain on the Indian delegation — for the films they bring, the fashion they flaunt, and the stories they carry from the subcontinent to the world.
Stay tuned for more from Cannes 2025 — where cinema meets style, and where India continues to shine.