It’s that time of year again when the glamour and glitz of the 77th Cannes Film Festival take center stage on our social media feeds. This year though, the festival is not only celebrating cinematic masterpieces but also spotlighting a dazzling array of South Asian creators and celebrities making their mark on the iconic carpet. While we have seen the return of Indian legacy actors like Aishwarya Rai walk the carpet, the expectations for everyone is the same: skyscraper high.
In an attempt to spotlight the people representing our culture on one of the biggest red carpets of the 21st century, we’ll be diving into the looks that turned heads and represented Indian creativity at its best.
Aishwarya Rai Bachan
As a regular attendee of the Cannes festival, Mrs.Bachan has all eyes on her. While a lot of her outfits were a miss, this one by Falguni Shane Peacock was dramatic enough to be noticeable. Her loose curls and blue eyeshadow were the most noteworthy parts of the look! That’s all I’ll be saying about this.
Viraj Ghelani
Known for his comedic brilliance on platforms like Dice Media and FilterCopy, Viraj Ghelani is set to bring a smile to the faces of many at Cannes. His charm makes him a standout personality but his Alok & Harsh ensemble was the cherry on top.
Kiara Advani
The star made her 2024 red carpet debut in a stunning Nedret Taciroglu dress. Paired with a fringed bun and minimal accessories, this is one outfit I’ll be thinking about for a long time to come.
Aastha Shah
Aastha Shah, a Mumbai-based content creator is breaking barriers and redefining beauty standards. With nearly a million followers, Aastha’s journey to the Cannes red carpet is a powerful statement of inclusivity and representation in an elegant gown by DOLLY J! Paired with a messy bun and the most subtle smoky eye, this was one look we had to look out for.
Sobhita Dhulipala
As always, my queen was extremely on point with all of her outfits for the red carpet. This gilded golden ensemble was paired with gorgeous dangling earrings and a sultry smoky eye that complemented the vibe perfectly.
Ankush Bahuguna
From studying architecture to becoming a content creation powerhouse, Ankush Bahuguna’s evolution is remarkable. Known for his lifestyle, travel, beauty, and skincare content, Ankush is all set to charm Cannes with his multifaceted talent and ombre brows. Brb, just going to quickly do this at home and hope it turns out half as well.
Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah
For the screening of Shyam Benegal’s masterpiece Manthan Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah arrived glammed in traditional wear. Ratna allegedly wore her own saree with a jacket and blouse in handwoven Himroo. Paired with maximalist jewellery and loose locks, she’s always the epitome of elegance.
RJ Karishma
Karishma Gangwal, aka RJ Karishma, made waves at the Furiosa – A Mad Max Saga premiere. In a multicoloured gown by Neharika by Nour, she paired it with a half updo and super long lashes to finish the look. One of the funniest people on screen and her off-screen elegance and poise are set to light up the Cannes red carpet.
Jacqueline Fernandez
Jacqueline Fernandez’s sartorial choice was breathtaking at the Cannes 2024 red carpet. Donned in a custom Mikael D Couture gown that complimented the over all theme of the event, she paired it with exquisite necklace and sleek brows.
Niharika NM
Niharika NM returns to Cannes for the third year, fresh off her Hollywood debut in Netflix’s Big Mouth. Her comedic genius and infectious energy are sure to make her a beloved figure at this year’s festival. I love everything about this look – the graphic liner, the matte lipstick, the seamless jewellery. Not to mention, that outrageously neon yellow cocktail dress – have to say, I’m a fan!
Masoom Minawala
Masoom Minawala, an influential fashionista and entrepreneur, is all set to steal the show in a custom Amit Aggarwal gown, one of my favs from the carpet. Styled with a sleek bun and a heavy smoky eye, her style and entrepreneurial spirit are a perfect match for the glamour of Cannes.
Rahi Chadda
Rahi Chadda, a seasoned attendee of Cannes, brings his unique perspective and creative vision as the first brown male ambassador for Dior Beauty. Donned in one of the most beautiful menswear ensembles I have seen this year, Chadda attended the Mad Max premiere in classic LUAR. Step aside Chris Hemsworth, there’s another style icon in town and he’s done his research.
Vishnu Kaushal
Personally one of my favourite creators, Vishnu Kaushal has also made it to the Cannes. In a gorgeous and perfect for the occasion, Rahul Mishra ensemble there’s no doubt he’ll be stealing hearts on the carpet!
Deepti Sadhwani
Honorary influencer and star from the famous Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, Deepti Sadhwani also made her Cannes debut this year. She graced the red carpet with an ensemble by designer Aanchal Dey. It’s giving Rihanna at the Met 2015.
Chef Sanjyot Keer
Celebrated for his innovative Indian culinary creations, Chef Sanjyot Keer will be making his debut at Cannes this year. Following in the footsteps of Chef Vikas Khanna, Sanjyot’s presence is a significant moment for the Indian culinary scene on the global stage.
King
Arpan Kumar Chandel, better known as King, has taken the Indian music scene by storm with his catchy beats and dynamic performances. As one of India’s best rappers, King’s presence at Cannes is a testament to the global reach of Indian hip-hop.
As the Cannes Film Festival continues to celebrate global cinema, the presence of these South Asian influencers highlights the festival’s expanding embrace of diversity and talent from across the world. From fashion to music, comedy to finance, and culinary arts, these trailblazers are set to make their mark and inspire millions.
Featured Image: Instagram / @masoomminawala
