The 78th Cannes Film Festival is underway from May 13 to May 24, 2025, but the attendance of one star, Alia Bhatt, is now uncertain amidst escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Originally scheduled to make her Cannes debut as a global ambassador for L'Oréal Paris, reports suggest that Bhatt has decided to postpone her appearance.
The decision reportedly stems from the recent escalation of conflict between India and Pakistan, including armed skirmishes along the Line of Control (LoC) that began in late April. These tensions arose after a terrorist attack in the Baisaran Valley of Jammu and Kashmir that killed 27 people. India accused Pakistan of supporting the attack, a charge Pakistan denied. The situation further intensified with missile strikes and cross-border firing, leading to a ceasefire agreement on May 10, which both countries have since accused the other of violating.
Sources indicate that Bhatt felt it would be inappropriate to attend an international event while the Indian Army is engaged in active operations at the border. "Alia took this decision considering the tension at the borders," a source told BollywoodShaadis. "The 'Raazi' actor did not feel it was right to go to Cannes at such a crucial time". Another report suggested that she may consider attending at a later date if the situation stabilizes.
On May 13, 2025, Bhatt shared a message expressing solidarity with Indian soldiers. "The last few nights have felt… different," she wrote, acknowledging the "quiet anxiety" and "pulse of tension" felt across the nation. "We have felt the weight of knowing that somewhere, out there in the mountains, our soldiers are awake, alert, and in danger," she added, expressing hope for peace and sending love to the families of those protecting the nation.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Bhatt's attendance, India has a strong presence at Cannes 2025. Several Indian films are set to be screened, including "Homebound" starring Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter, Satyajit Ray's restored classic "Aranyer Din Ratri," and Anupam Kher's directorial venture "Tanvi The Great". Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore is also attending for the screening of "Aranyer Din Ratri". Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is also expected to grace the red carpet.
The India-Pakistan conflict has a long history, with tensions flaring up repeatedly. In this latest escalation, some analysts suggest neither side achieved a decisive victory. While India asserted its determination to act in self-defense, Pakistan demonstrated its ability to retaliate. The situation remains tense, with both countries possessing nuclear capabilities, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation.
Whether Alia Bhatt will eventually attend Cannes 2025 remains to be seen, as her team continues to monitor the situation. Her absence from the opening ceremony underscores the impact of geopolitical tensions on the world of entertainment and the choices made by public figures during times of conflict.
