Janhvi Kapoor made a striking debut at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, captivating attention with her style and presence along the French Riviera, as speculation grows about Deepika Padukone being replaced by Janhvi Kapoor in Spirit, the much-anticipated film with Prabhas. The event saw Kapoor’s fashion and film choices draw both praise and intense curiosity from critics and the public alike.
Janhvi Kapoor’s Fashion Wins at Cannes
Making her first appearance at Cannes 2025, Janhvi Kapoor wore an archival black backless gown from YSL’s 1975 Rive Gauche collection, with accessories including diamond studs from Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas Jewellers, a Hermes Kelly bag, and Christian Louboutin shoes. The ensemble, shared by Vogue India, left a strong impression as she walked along the French Riviera. Kapoor attended the premiere of Homebound, a film featuring former beau Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles, showcasing her growing international profile.
For the red carpet event of Homebound, Kapoor opted for a pearly pink skirt and corset crafted by Tarun Tahiliani, using Benarasi fabric. She added a small Ghunghaat and layers of pearls, creating a look that earned mixed reactions but ensured she stood out among attendees at the Cannes Film Festival. The intensity of her sartorial choices matched the charged atmosphere of the festival.
Critical Acclaim for Homebound and Kapoor’s Role
The film Homebound, which stars Kapoor as Sudha, received a standing ovation that lasted nearly nine minutes and garnered praise from international critics. The story revolves around the aspirations of two friends, Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), both dreaming of joining the police force. The narrative delves into pressing issues including social discrimination, reservation, and youth aspirations in the Indian hinterland, giving the film contemporary social relevance.
Rumors Swirl About Replacement in Spirit
Adding to the excitement, reports suggest that Janhvi Kapoor is being considered for the film Spirit opposite Prabhas, with Deepika Padukone reportedly no longer part of the project. Kapoor has already made her mark in Telugu cinema with Devara alongside Jr NTR and is currently involved in Ram Charan’s Peddi, where she plays a village belle. Her experience in South Indian roles, grasp of the Telugu language, and growing filmography position her as a strong contender for the role in Spirit.
Potential Impact on Kapoor’s Career and Indian Cinema
If Janhvi Kapoor steps into the role previously linked to Deepika Padukone, it would represent a significant shift within the industry and further solidify Kapoor’s rising influence. Her presence at Cannes 2025, combined with critical acclaim for Homebound and rumored casting in Spirit, indicates that Kapoor is rapidly emerging as a dynamic force in both Bollywood and regional cinema. The decision regarding the casting of Spirit is anticipated to draw considerable attention, with potential to shape future trends in Indian and international film collaboration.
