Aishwarya Rai channels royalty in ivory sari and sindoor at Cannes 2025 red carpet

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan made a stunning return to the Cannes Film Festival 2025 with a look that celebrated Indian tradition and elegance. Wearing a regal ivory sari adorned with intricate lacework, Rai completed her ensemble with traditional jewellery and a bold streak of sindoor — symbolising her identity and cultural roots.

The actor walked the red carpet at the premiere of The History of Sound, making heads turn with her graceful presence. This marks her 22nd appearance at Cannes, where she represented global beauty brand L'Oréal Paris. As always, the crowd welcomed her with cheers and applause as she greeted photographers with a namaste, waved at fans and blew flying kisses.

Her sari featured a long flowing pallu over her left shoulder and a dramatic lace train on her right, blending classic Indian wear with haute couture elegance. She wore a radiant smile and carried herself with the poise of a seasoned Cannes veteran.

Aishwarya made her Cannes debut in 2002 when her film Devdas was screened, and over the years, she has become a symbol of Indian cinematic pride on the international stage.

This year has also been notable for Indian representation at Cannes. Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor and Vishal Jethwa, premiered in the Un Certain Regard category and earned a 9-minute standing ovation. Meanwhile, Satyajit Ray’s classic Aranyer Din Ratri was screened as part of the Cannes Classics section, with Sharmila Tagore and Simi Garewal in attendance.