Janhvi Kapoor made a breathtaking debut at the Cannes Film Festival this year, and her choice of attire spoke volumes. Dressed in a custom rose-toned gown designed by Indian designer Tarun Tahiliani, Janhvi graced the red carpet with a look that blended tradition, elegance, and modern sophistication.
The ensemble featured a voluminous skirt and corset made from handwoven tissue fabric sourced from Benaras, India. This special textile was enhanced with a hand-crushed texture to add depth and dimension. The raw, uncut hem and signature Tahiliani drape completed the ethereal look, complemented perfectly by jewelry from Chopard’s Haute Joaillerie collection. A delicate veil over her sleek, low bun added to the dramatic yet graceful aura.
In an exclusive conversation, Janhvi shared that this appearance was a departure from her usual glamorous looks. “I’ve always loved sparkle, hourglass shapes, and dramatic silhouettes, so this was a big shift for me,” she admitted. The idea was to present a side of her that hasn’t been seen before—more refined, more understated, yet still impactful.
The look was styled by her cousin and fashion icon Rhea Kapoor. Together, they aimed to focus on Janhvi’s natural beauty and the meaningful representation of her roots. Wearing an Indian designer on this international platform was a conscious choice for Janhvi. “It’s time Indian designers get their spotlight,” she said. “So many textiles on global red carpets are made in India, and I feel proud to be wearing something that highlights that craftsmanship.”
Janhvi emphasized how Indian attire makes her feel most confident, adding that for such a major global event, authenticity was key. “I wanted to feel like myself on that red carpet,” she said.
Her presence at Cannes was tied to the premiere of her latest film, Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan. The film, also starring Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, follows the story of two friends from a North Indian village who face challenges when they become police officers. The film explores themes of social hierarchy and exclusion, offering a powerful narrative with universal relevance.
Janhvi explained that the story holds deep meaning for her and reflects global issues of identity and belonging. “I wanted my look to mirror the seriousness of the film,” she said. “Of course, fashion is a big part of Cannes, but I wanted the focus to stay on the movie and our journey.”
Excited and humbled by the opportunity, Janhvi expressed her gratitude for representing Indian cinema on such a prestigious platform. “Being part of this festival, surrounded by such brilliant artists, is a dream come true.”
