Cannes 2026: The world’s most prestigious film festival, Cannes Film Festival, begins on the French Riviera from May 12–23, bringing together cinema, fashion and global stars under one spotlight.
Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt has already arrived in France for the festival, and her first look from outside the iconic Hotel Martinez has gone viral on social media.
Alia was spotted wearing a corset-style printed ball gown featuring soft watercolor-inspired shades of pastel green, blue, lavender, and pale yellow. The gown’s artistic floral aesthetic gave the impression of a hand-painted garden canvas.
Keeping her styling elegant and minimal, Alia opted for a classy and understated appearance. The designer behind the look has not yet been officially revealed.
This year, Alia Bhatt is attending Cannes 2026 as the Global Ambassador for L’Oréal Paris.
The world’s most prestigious film festival, the Cannes Film Festival, officially began today on the French Riviera and will continue from May 12 to May 23.
Indian Celebrities at Cannes 2026
Several Indian celebrities are expected to walk the Cannes red carpet this year.
Among the major Indian stars attending are:
- Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
- Mouni Roy
- Aditi Rao Hydari
- Ahsaas Channa
- Tara Sutaria
Tara Sutaria is set to make her Cannes red carpet debut this year.
Meanwhile, social media speculation has intensified over whether Alia Bhatt has effectively replaced Aishwarya Rai as L’Oréal Paris’ leading face at Cannes, although no official confirmation has been made.
PM Narendra Modi’s Appeal Impacts Cannes Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal to citizens to reduce unnecessary travel and fuel usage has also impacted India’s participation at Cannes this year.
Following the Prime Minister’s statement, Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Department decided not to participate in the festival.
Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar stated that the department’s delegation would skip the Cannes Film Festival in line with the PM’s appeal. He added that vehicle use would be reduced and essential meetings would be conducted virtually.
Indian and Regional Films at Cannes 2026
Indian regional cinema is also set to make a strong mark at Cannes this year.
The Indo-American film Bombay Stories will be screened during the festival. Based on a novel by Saadat Hasan Manto, the film explores the lives of sex workers in 1930s Bombay.
Directed by Rahat Shah Kazmi, the screening will also be attended by actress Mouni Roy.
Another major highlight is the screening of the 40-year-old Malayalam classic Amma Ariyan in the prestigious Classics section of Cannes 2026.
Cannes Film Festival: Why It Matters Globally
Held annually on the French Riviera, the Cannes Film Festival is regarded as one of the world’s biggest cinematic and cultural events. The festival brings together filmmakers, actors, producers, fashion icons, and global media from across the world.
Over the years, Indian cinema has built a strong presence at Cannes through red carpet appearances, film screenings, and jury representation, making it one of the most followed international events for Bollywood and regional cinema fans alike.