Indian Directors, Actors, and Films Set to Shine at the 78th Cannes Film Festival
May 14, 2025 – The 78th Cannes Film Festival is just around the corner, and Indian cinema is poised to make a strong impact at this prestigious event. With films like Homebound, Aranyer Din Ratri, Tanvi The Great, and Charak, India’s diverse and vibrant storytelling will take center stage on the global platform, showcasing the talent and creativity of Indian filmmakers.
Cannes Film Festival – Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound in Un Certain Regard
Indian cinema also shines brightly with Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, selected for the prestigious Un Certain Regard section. The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, and promises to explore deep emotional themes of family and identity. With Martin Scorsese as an executive producer, the film has already garnered significant international attention and is expected to stand out at this year’s festival.
Satyajit Ray’s Iconic Aranyer Din Ratri in Cannes Classics
A major highlight for India at the Cannes Film Festival is the screening of Satyajit Ray’s legendary 1970 film, Aranyer Din Ratri, in the Cannes Classics section. This newly restored 4K version, created using the original camera and sound negatives, provides audiences a chance to experience Ray’s cinematic genius in its finest form. The film, starring Soumitra Chatterjee and Sharmila Tagore, remains a masterpiece in the world of Indian cinema.
Anupam Kher Makes His Directorial Debut with Tanvi The Great
Another standout is Anupam Kher’s directorial debut, Tanvi The Great, which will have its world premiere at the March du Film during the Cannes Film Festival. Featuring an ensemble cast of Shubhangi Dutt, Iain Glen, Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, and Arvind Swami, the film promises to be a powerful exploration of personal growth, relationships, and resilience.
Sudipto Sen’s Charak: A Dark Social Commentary
Sudipto Sen’s Charak presents a bold and thought-provoking narrative drawn from the traditional Charak Puja festival in Bengal. Directed by Sheiladitya Moulik, the film explores the darker side of blind faith, child sacrifice, and occult rituals, offering a powerful social commentary on the dangerous intersection of tradition and humanity. This intense film is set to challenge audiences’ perspectives on spirituality and societal norms.
A Doll Made Up of Clay: India’s Spotlight at La Cinef
India’s presence at Cannes extends to the La Cinef section with Kokob Gebrehaweria Tesfay’s short film, A Doll Made Up of Clay. A production of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), this 23-minute film marks India’s sole entry in this prestigious category, celebrating the work of emerging filmmakers from around the world.
The Red Carpet: Indian Stars Shine at Cannes
As always, the Cannes red carpet will be graced by a stellar lineup of Indian talent. Celebrities like Alia Bhatt, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sharmila Tagore, Anupam Kher, Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa are expected to attend, adding further glamour to this grand international event.
The 78th Cannes Film Festival will take place from May 13 to May 24, 2025, and promises to be a remarkable showcase for Indian cinema, highlighting both seasoned and new voices in the global film industry.