All the Indian Stars on the Cannes Red Carpet 2025: A Celebration of Cinema, Culture, and Couture.

The Cannes Film Festival has always been a global stage for cinematic excellence and high fashion, but in 2025, Indian stars elevated the red carpet to dazzling new heights. This year saw a remarkable convergence of heritage, innovation, and star power. From Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s regal elegance to Janhvi Kapoor’s much-anticipated debut, here’s a detailed look at the Indian presence that made this year’s festival truly unforgettable.

Alia Bhatt: Modern Glamour Meets Indian Craft

Alia Bhatt arrived for the latter half of the festival, making a statement in an ivory-nude Schiaparelli mermaid gown adorned with delicate floral detailing, paired with Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas earrings. The look was ethereal and fresh, perfectly balancing international trends with a distinct Indian sensibility.

Her second appearance as a L’Oréal ambassador saw her in a navy bejewelled Giorgio Armani Privé gown from the label’s Spring/Summer 2025 line. Bhatt’s hair was styled in a sleek bun, topped with a beaded cap—a nod to vintage glamour with a modern twist. For the closing ceremony, Bhatt donned a monogrammed GG Gucci ensemble, bejewelled from head to toe. Soft waves and natural makeup completed the look, proving her versatility and cementing her status as a global ambassador for Indian style.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: The Queen of Cannes

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s 22nd appearance at Cannes was nothing short of iconic. For her first look, she wore a custom white-and-gold Banarasi sari by Manish Malhotra, handwoven in Varanasi. The sari featured intricate kadwa brocade motifs and real chandi zari embroidery, blending centuries-old Indian craftsmanship with modern couture sensibility. Styled with a dramatic ruby necklace and a touch of sindoor, Aishwarya’s look was a powerful nod to her Indian roots and a celebration of classic artistry.

For her second appearance, she turned heads in a custom black velvet gown by Gaurav Gupta, layered with a sumptuous Banarasi brocade cape, also handwoven in Varanasi. The cape’s rich gold motifs shimmered under the Cannes lights, while her signature red lip and confident presence reminded everyone why she remains a global fashion icon. Each look was a masterclass in blending tradition with contemporary glamour, reinforcing Aishwarya’s legacy as the Queen of Cannes.

Janhvi Kapoor: A Debut Steeped in Heritage and Experimentation

Janhvi Kapoor’s Cannes debut for her film “Homebound” was one of the most anticipated moments of the festival. She first appeared in a custom skirt and corset by Tarun Tahiliani, crafted from real tissue woven in Varanasi—a tribute to Indian textile heritage. The ensemble, styled with layered pearls and a romantic floral garland, was both traditional and contemporary, capturing the spirit of a modern-day princess.

Kapoor continued to experiment with her style, wearing a backless Anamika Khanna dress with a minty green skirt and a dramatic back chain of pearls and gems. Her jhumkas added a touch of Indian flair to the international stage.

For the amfAR gala, she embraced vintage glamour in an archival 1989 YSL jacket and sculptural hat, paired with an Anamika Khanna skirt, stockings, and black pumps—a look that channeled retro sophistication. In a playful twist, Kapoor also sported a chic schoolgirl-inspired Miu Miu ensemble, layered with a checked bomber jacket and accessorized with calf-length socks, sling-back heels, and a tan leather handbag. Her radiant beauty look—peachy blush, glossy lips, and fanned-out lashes—completed the transformation.

Aditi Rao Hydari: Ethereal and Elegant

Aditi Rao Hydari brought her signature grace to the red carpet in a floor-length ombré fitted gown by Rahul Mishra, styled with a sparkling Chopard diamond necklace. The shimmering ensemble highlighted her delicate features and understated glamour, reinforcing her reputation as one of India’s most elegant style icons.

Natasha Poonawalla: Maximalist Muse

Known for her fearless approach to fashion, Natasha Poonawalla wore a Dior dress from John Galliano’s India-inspired Spring/Summer collection, layered with a jacket from the Fall/Winter 2002 archive. Her look was a masterclass in maximalism, blending global couture with Indian inspiration and bold accessorizing.

Ishaan Khatter: Modern Maharaja

Ishaan Khatter embraced a regal aesthetic in a deep maroon velvet bandhgala by Gaurav Gupta, featuring intricate black zardozi embroidery. For a more relaxed appearance, he chose a sepia-tone vintage Armani vest ensemble, styled with Messika jewellery—a nod to both tradition and contemporary luxury.

Karan Johar: Tailored Sophistication

Filmmaker Karan Johar made a statement in a custom, crisply tailored Manish Malhotra ensemble, paired with the newest Omega Speedmaster 38mm watch. He followed this with a Rohit Bal three-piece suit, adorned with embroidered rose motifs—a piece that took over 400 hours to create, showcasing the artistry and dedication behind Indian couture.

A Landmark Year for Indian Cinema and Style

Cannes 2025 was more than a showcase of films—it was a celebration of Indian artistry, culture, and fashion. From the emotional standing ovation for “Homebound” to the intricate weaves of Banarasi silk and the bold silhouettes of contemporary couture, Indian stars made their mark with confidence, creativity, and a deep respect for heritage. Their presence was not just about representation, but about redefining the global narrative of cinema and style, one unforgettable look at a time.