Cannes 2025: A Stage for Indian Heritage, Where Culture Speaks Louder Than Celebrities

Cannes 2025: This time, Indian cinema echoed differently at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, which is considered a confluence of glamour, cinema and culture. While new films and stars from around the world showed their flair, a 25-year-old Indian classic evoked a feeling of nostalgia and pride on the red carpet. Counted among the greatest directors of Indian cinema, Satyajit Ray's 1970 classic film 'Aranyer Din Ratri' was selected for special screening at Cannes this time. The film was presented in the "Classics Restored" section, where historical works of world cinema are shown in a new digital avatar.

Sharmila Tagore's simplicity became the center of attraction

While international stars were seen in expensive gowns and designer dresses on the red carpet, 80-year-old veteran actress Sharmila Tagore won everyone's heart with Indian tradition and simplicity. She was wearing a green silk saree with beautiful embroidery of golden border. Her confidence and dignity mesmerized the audience. Simi Garewal, the film’s co-lead, was also in attendance at the prestigious event. Her trademark elegance and glamour was once again visible in a white outfit and long shrug. She maintained her classic style and proved that real glamour is not dependent on age.

Indian representation added pride

This year, many new celebrities from Bollywood also joined Cannes, including names like Urvashi Rautela, Jacqueline Fernandez and Nitanshi Goyal. However, the presence of experienced actresses like Sharmila and Simi made the festival historic. More than a screening, it was a grand celebration of Indian cinema’s timeless heritage. The success of 'Aranyer Din Ratri' proved that the depth and artistry of Indian films is still relevant on the biggest stages of the world. Now it will be interesting to see if more classic films will join this series of global revival in the coming years.