Janhvi Kapoor made a breathtaking debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, walking the red carpet for the premiere of her film Homebound in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section. Dressed in a blush pink lehenga by Tarun Tahiliani, Janhvi paid a heartfelt tribute to her late mother, the legendary Sridevi, blending Indian heritage with modern couture. Accompanied by co-stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, director Neeraj Ghaywan, and producer Karan Johar, Janhvi’s “modern maharani” moment stole the show. Here’s the full breakdown of her iconic outfit, red carpet highlights, and the buzz surrounding Homebound that has Bollywood fans buzzing!
A Regal Look: Tarun Tahiliani’s Blush Pink Masterpiece
Janhvi’s Cannes debut look was a custom Tarun Tahiliani creation, handwoven in Banaras using real tissue fabric with a “hand-crushed” technique for a textured, poetic flow. The ensemble featured a structured corset top, a voluminous pleated skirt with a dramatic train, and a dupatta-like drape styled as a ghoonghat, evoking traditional Indian royalty. Vogue India described it as “poetry in fabric,” while India Today called it a “masterclass for Indian brides.” Styled by Rhea Kapoor, Janhvi accessorised with layered pearl necklaces, diamond studs from Chopard, and a floral garland, adding a vintage touch. Her makeup—dewy pink blush, winged eyeliner, and a mauve lip—channelled Sridevi’s 90s glamour, with a sleek low bun completing the look. Fans on X went wild, with posts like “Sridevi ki jhalak” (@ani_digital) and “Maharani vibes” (@FilmyGlamour) flooding timelines.
The outfit’s soft blush pink hue and ghoonghat were widely seen as a tribute to Sridevi, who never attended Cannes but was known for her timeless elegance in traditional wear. DNA India noted fans comparing Janhvi’s look to Sridevi’s iconic portraits, with one commenting, “She’s channelling her mom’s spirit” (@dna). Though neither Janhvi nor Tahiliani confirmed the tribute, Eastern Eye reported that the resemblance in mood and styling spoke volumes. Some critics, per India Forums, felt the jewels “didn’t pop,” but the consensus was clear: Janhvi’s look was a regal nod to her mother’s legacy.
Red Carpet Moments: Grace and Chivalry
Janhvi’s red carpet walk was a spectacle of grace and teamwork. Videos shared by News18 captured Ishaan Khatter and Neeraj Ghaywan helping Janhvi navigate the stairs in her voluminous gown, a chivalrous gesture that went viral. Pinkvilla called it a “Bridgerton-coded” moment, with Ishaan, dapper in a Gaurav Gupta maroon velvet suit, ensuring Janhvi shone. The Homebound team, including Vishal Jethwa and Karan Johar (in a Manish Malhotra ivory bandhgala), posed together against the Palais des Festivals, with Bollywood Bubble praising their “star-studded elegance.” Janhvi’s fan interactions before the premiere, spotted in a chic Miu Miu co-ord set, added to her charm, per India Today. X posts like “Janhvi owns Cannes” (@CNNnews18) highlighted her confident flair.
Homebound: The Film Stealing the Spotlight
Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan (Masaan), is a Hindi-language drama about two childhood friends from a North Indian village chasing police jobs for dignity, only to face strained bonds amid desperation. Starring Janhvi, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa, and backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and executive producer Martin Scorsese, the film premiered on May 21 in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section, known for innovative storytelling. Outlook India reported the film’s global buzz, with Scorsese’s involvement adding prestige. Karan Johar shared, “Having Martin Scorsese lend his wisdom elevates our film to a rare artistic height” (India.com). Fans on X are hyped, with posts like “Janhvi and Ishaan back after Dhadak!” (@bairaagix), fueling excitement for the yet-to-be-announced India release.
The Buzz: India’s Cannes Takeover
Janhvi’s debut was part of a strong Indian presence at Cannes 2025, with stars like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Sharmila Tagore also making waves. Bollywood Life dubbed Janhvi’s look “regal,” while Times Now reported praise from Sonam Kapoor, Khushi Kapoor, and others, with Sonam calling it “Beauty” on Instagram. The internet drew parallels to Sridevi’s elegance, with Deccan Herald noting Janhvi’s “uncanny resemblance” to her mother’s iconic style. Despite minor critiques, her “modern-Indian-princess energy” (Indian Express) and the Homebound team’s collective charm made this a defining moment for Indian cinema.
Why This Matters
Janhvi Kapoor’s Cannes 2025 debut wasn’t just a fashion win—it was a cultural milestone. Her Tarun Tahiliani lehenga, a blend of Banarasi craftsmanship and modern flair, honored Sridevi’s legacy while showcasing India’s global fashion influence. With Homebound poised to make waves and Janhvi’s star power undeniable, this red carpet moment will be remembered as a tribute to both heritage and ambition. What’s your take on Janhvi’s look? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned to Chai and Churan for more Bollywood buzz!...
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