Alia Bhatt is set to make her highly anticipated debut on the prestigious red carpet at the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, which will run from May 13 to May 24, 2025, in Cannes, France. The celebrated Bollywood star will join acclaimed actresses Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Sharmila Tagore, representing Indian cinema at the iconic event. Bhatt, newly appointed as a brand ambassador for L’Oréal, will walk the red carpet alongside other international luminaries, making her entry at Cannes a significant milestone in her already illustrious career.
This year’s Cannes Film Festival has generated excitement worldwide, with attention focused on Alia Bhatt’s participation as part of the L’Oréal brand—a role that solidifies her presence on the global stage. Bhatt has joined the lineage of Indian ambassadors for L’Oréal, following in the footsteps of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Last year, Alia Bhatt unveiled her first L’Oréal campaign, donning a white top emblazoned with the iconic slogan, “I’m worth it,” symbolizing her newfound role and her continued ascent as a trendsetter in the entertainment world.
Reflecting on her upcoming appearance, Alia Bhatt recently expressed her immense joy and honor, stating,
Her poised enthusiasm underscores the importance of her Cannes debut, which is seen by many as both a personal achievement and a collective moment for Indian cinema and its global influence.
The Bollywood contingent at the festival this year is especially significant. Accompanying Alia Bhatt will be Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, itself a Cannes regular who first graced the festival two decades ago during the premiere of “Devdas.” Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, joined by her daughter Aaradhya Bachchan, is expected to once again captivate international audiences with her distinctive style and enduring screen presence. Sharmila Tagore will also play a pivotal role this season, marking her return to Cannes as she presents a newly restored version of Satyajit Ray’s classic film “Aranyer Din Ratri” (Days and Nights in the Forest) in the Cannes Classics section. This screening is a monumental event, highlighting the legacy of Indian cinema at this festival and celebrating a new chapter in its relationship with the global audience.
Several other Bollywood names are poised to make headlines at Cannes 2025. Simi Garewal, an accomplished actress of her era and co-star of Sharmila Tagore, will join her at the screening, further amplifying India’s vibrant representation. The restoration of “Aranyer Din Ratri” has been enabled by a remarkable collaboration involving The Film Foundation, India’s Film Heritage Foundation, Janus Films, and The Criterion Collection, with oversight from American director and Film Foundation board member Wes Anderson, who will honor the esteemed Satyajit Ray during the festival.
Also marking their presence is filmmaker Payal Kapadia, who this year joins the Cannes jury—a significant honor following her critical success last year with “All We Imagine As Light.” This underscores India’s growing influence and voice on the international stage, uniting new cinematic endeavors with a storied legacy.
The film “Homebound,” directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and represented by Karan Johar, Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, has garnered considerable buzz after acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese signed on as executive producer. This is poised to draw the spotlight towards up-and-coming Indian films despite the absence of any Indian entry in this year’s Palme d’Or competition. Meanwhile, Urvashi Rautela, a familiar face on international red carpets, is also expected to return, lending even more glamour and visibility to the Indian delegation at Cannes.
The festival’s global appeal is further enhanced by planned tributes and star appearances beyond Bollywood. Renowned actor Robert De Niro will receive the honorary Palme d’Or for lifetime achievement at the opening ceremony. Nicole Kidman is set to be honored with the 2025 Women in Motion Award on May 18, while Tom Cruise will attend the premiere of
scheduled for May 14 at the esteemed Grand Theatre Lumière.
This convergence of legendary and emerging figures from across the globe creates a historic backdrop for Alia Bhatt’s first Cannes red carpet walk. The red carpet is not merely a stage for fashion and celebrity—it’s a highly visible platform for cultural storytelling, social influence, and cinematic celebration. Bhatt’s inclusion symbolizes the rise of a new generation of Indian talent intersecting with a continuing legacy that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Sharmila Tagore have built over decades.
The context of Alia Bhatt’s invitation is also shaped by her recent achievement of becoming a brand ambassador for one of the largest beauty brands in the world. Her selection as L’Oréal’s ambassador is a nod not only to her acting prowess but also to her increasing international profile. This dual role—artist and global figure—positions Bhatt as a central protagonist at this year’s Cannes, highlighting the evolving face of Indian female stardom and the broader impact of Bollywood on global culture.
Background information reveals the depth of preparation and anticipation that precedes such an event. The Cannes Film Festival is recognized as one of the world’s most prestigious venues for cinema, where tradition, glamour, and cinematic achievement converge. For Bollywood, appearances at Cannes have often served as crucial milestones in the acceptance and admiration of Indian cinema worldwide. Iconic moments like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s 2002 debut for “Devdas” and Sharmila Tagore’s earlier participations have since inspired a new wave of talent hoping to emulate their path and carve out global recognition.
This year’s festival has another unique feature—the palpable sense of anticipation generated by the lack of Indian films in competition, focusing all the more attention on the personalities present. Despite this, the power of presence on the red carpet—the opportunity to showcase Indian talent and heritage through sartorial choices and interactions—remains undiminished. Fans, critics, and industry professionals alike are awaiting Alia Bhatt’s debut, seeing it as an important stride for both the actress and the wider Bollywood community.
Further fueling excitement, the collaboration between former Miss World Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Alia Bhatt as representatives of L’Oréal marks a distinctive generational moment. It bridges past and future, legacy and innovation, all while inviting the international spotlight to examine India’s evolving contribution to cinema and global beauty standards. The narrative of two Bollywood icons, together with Sharmila Tagore, standing at the forefront of a global event offers an emotionally charged appeal to everyone who recognizes the significance of such a gathering.
In interviews and public statements, the involved celebrities have reiterated the importance of Indian culture’s place at an event like Cannes. Alia Bhatt’s declaration that
encapsulates not just an individual experience but a shared national sentiment that values tradition, pride, and ambition. This sentiment is echoed by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Sharmila Tagore as they share the responsibility of representing India’s cinematic legacy on a world-renowned platform.
The presence of world cinema legends such as Robert De Niro, Nicole Kidman, and Tom Cruise only heightens the stakes for new entrants like Alia Bhatt. Cannes is not merely about Hollywood and Western cinema—it’s a forum where film artistry from every continent is celebrated, critiqued, and propelled into the global conversation. The inclusion of a restored Indian classic, “Aranyer Din Ratri,” alongside the much-anticipated appearances of Bollywood’s finest, situates this year’s festival at a rare crossroads of history and contemporary influence.
Preparation for such an event is detailed, intense, and requires months of coordination among artists, designers, stylists, and brand representatives. For Alia Bhatt, every step—from choosing the ensemble for her red carpet walk to managing a growing media presence—reflects a careful calibration between personal choices and collective representation. According to those close to the planning process, Bhatt has been deeply involved in curating her Cannes looks, ensuring that her choices both honor tradition and chart a path for future appearances by Indian artists on global stages.
Anticipation for the event is palpable not just in entertainment circles but among fans who celebrate the growing visibility of Indian celebrities at major international forums. Alia Bhatt’s entry is seen by many as a watershed moment, signaling a shift in how Bollywood talent is perceived internationally. The excitement is amplified by her own eloquent embrace of the occasion, her position as a newly minted ambassador for a leading global brand, and her association with icons who have long shaped cultural perceptions of India abroad.
This unique convergence of industry veterans and rising stars sets a dynamic tone for this year’s festival. The camaraderie and shared purpose between Alia Bhatt, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Sharmila Tagore demonstrate the unity and evolution of Bollywood’s female icons. Their journey echoes a process of mutual inspiration, mentorship, and affirmation which has inspired countless young artists across India and beyond.
The restoration and screening of Satyajit Ray’s “Aranyer Din Ratri” further anchor the festival’s proceedings in historical reflection and cultural celebration. The joint efforts of The Film Foundation, India’s Film Heritage Foundation, Janus Films, and The Criterion Collection—led by the artistic vision of Wes Anderson—underscore the continuing relevance and appeal of classic Indian cinema. This facet of India’s Cannes presence deepens its engagement with cinematic history and underlines the multifaceted role that Indian artists play at the festival.
India’s narrative at Cannes 2025 is dynamic, multifaceted, and emotionally charged. Alia Bhatt’s debut, positioned alongside powerful legacies and vibrant emerging talent, promises to capture international headlines. The red carpet walk stands as both personal triumph and collective statement—a celebration of artistry, ambition, and cultural pride.
The wider impact of Alia Bhatt’s participation cannot be overstated. Her debut signals the increasing permeability of borders in the world of entertainment, where talent, style, and creative ambition can propel artists onto the world’s most glamorous stages. Her collaboration with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan for L’Oréal further exemplifies the power of partnership and the importance of continuity as one generation supports and uplifts the next.
The emotional resonance of this moment is clear—the pride felt by Indians worldwide as they witness their stars represented at such a prestigious event, the excitement of seeing Alia Bhatt breaking new ground, and the hope that Indian culture continues to shine ever brighter on the international scene. With every carefully planned appearance, intricate ensemble, and thoughtful interaction, Bhatt is set to affirm her place not only as a star of Indian screen but as a true global icon.
Looking ahead, industry experts anticipate that Alia Bhatt’s Cannes debut will open new avenues for cross-cultural collaboration and inspire further appreciation for India’s creative industries. Her path, widened by the footsteps of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Sharmila Tagore, will likely encourage more Indian actors and filmmakers to engage with international platforms, elevating Bollywood’s status and influence for years to come.
While this year’s festival may not feature an Indian film in competition, the power of representation remains undiminished. The sheer presence of Alia Bhatt and fellow icons underscores a form of cultural diplomacy—an affirmation that India’s stories, talents, and voices matter globally. Through interviews, public appearances, and symbolic moments on the red carpet, these celebrities are reimagining possibilities for the next generation of artists, fostering dialogue between nations, and setting the standard for excellence in their respective fields.
The emotional energy of this year’s festival is underscored by the story arcs of each participant—the wisdom and elegance of Sharmila Tagore, the enduring allure of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and the fearless enthusiasm of Alia Bhatt. Each brings a unique perspective, yet together they weave a compelling narrative of aspiration, achievement, and national pride. Their interactions, both on and off the red carpet, will provide inspiration and insight for millions, encouraging others to dream big and pursue their passions relentlessly.
In the coming days, all eyes will be on Cannes as Alia Bhatt takes her place among the stars. Every outfit, appearance, and interview will be analyzed, celebrated, and discussed, further cementing her growing legacy. For Bhatt, the festival is not only a career milestone but also a profound opportunity to engage with other global artists, participate in meaningful cultural exchange, and share India’s vibrant heritage with the world.
This journey is a testament to the power of ambition, preparation, and the enduring appeal of Indian cinema. As fans, critics, and peers look forward to Alia Bhatt’s red carpet moment, the collective sense of possibility, pride, and hope is unmistakable. The Cannes Film Festival 2025 will not simply be a stage for movies—it will be a canvas where history is made, where aspirations come alive, and where the next chapter of Bollywood’s global journey unfolds through the spirited presence of leaders like Alia Bhatt.
What happens next for Alia Bhatt and her contemporaries on this global stage remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—their artistry, resilience, and passion will continue to shape the narrative of Indian cinema, inspiring generations to push boundaries and celebrate their unique brilliance.
