Cannes 2025: Indian films at the French Riviera

The 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival is finally here, it begins from today, May 13 and will end on May 24, and it is surely about to be a cinematic fever dream, and guess what? India is not coming to play. With four absolutely buzzworthy entries lined up, Indian cinema is sashaying down the French Riviera like it owns the place. Let’s just say: the global stage is being Indian-fied and we are unapologetically screaming.

Homebound

If the words “Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Neeraj Ghaywan, and Martin Scorsese” in the same sentence do not make your brain explode with curiosity, are you even alive? Karan Johar is backing this indie-esque yet glossy drama, with Vishal Jethwa joining the cast. Ghaywan’s second feature has found its cosy spot in the Un Certain Regard section, and oh, Martin Scorsese came on board as the executive producer. That’s right. Scorsese. Apparently, Janhvi Kapoor could not contain her excitement as she shared how grateful the team feels about being creatively mentored by him. Uh, legends supporting legends? We love to see it.

Aranyer Din Ratri

This is not a drill: Satyajit Ray’s cult 1970 film Aranyer Din Ratri is making a stylish comeback at Cannes in its restored glory. The Film Heritage Foundation dropped the news like a cinematic mic drop. And guess what? Sharmila Tagore, the original star herself, is gracing the premiere alongside a power-packed squad, Wes Anderson, Simi Garewal, Margaret Bodde, and more. We are weeping vintage tears of joy.

Tanvi The Great

Anupam Kher is in his directorial bag and we are so here for it. His film Tanvi The Great is premiering at the Marché du Film, a.k.a. the Cannes Film Market. The team has declared this debut as a major global moment and honestly, they are not wrong. Just the kind of main-character energy Cannes deserves.

A Doll Made Up Of Clay

A Doll Made Up Of Clay is living proof that powerful stories come from anywhere — even the student halls of SRFTI. Directed by Kokob Gebrehweria Tesfay, an Ethiopian filmmaker, and produced by Sahil Manoj Ingle, this short film has bagged a spot in the elite La Cinef section. Executive producer Uma Kumari and the crew have basically kicked down the doors of Cannes with pure indie magic.

From Bollywood drama to restored masterpieces and international student genius, Cannes 2025 is feeling more desi than ever. And if this is what global cinema looks like, we are packing our virtual bags and heading straight to the Croisette.