Janhvi Kapoor's debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in 2025 was a poignant blend of cinematic celebration and heartfelt tribute, marking a significant milestone in her career. 

A Tribute to Legacy: Janhvi’s Emotional Red Carpet Debut

On May 20, 2025, Janhvi Kapoor graced the Cannes red carpet for the premiere of her film Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan. Her ensemble, a custom creation by Tarun Tahiliani, featured a blush pink tissue skirt and corset, crafted from hand-crushed fabric woven in Banaras. The look was completed with a delicate veil covering her low bun, layered pearl necklaces, and matching earrings, evoking the timeless elegance of her late mother, Sridevi .

 

Styled by her cousin Rhea Kapoor, Janhvi's appearance was a departure from her usual glamorous silhouettes. "I’ve always been super fixated on being sort of hyper glamorous," Janhvi shared with Vogue Arabia. "So this was very new for me" .

Homebound: A Story of Dreams and Determination

Homebound, showcased in the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes, tells the story of two childhood friends from a North Indian village pursuing police jobs to gain dignity and respect. As they near their goal, rising desperation tests their bond. The film stars Janhvi Kapoor alongside Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, with production by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions and executive production by Martin Scorsese .

A Moment of Support and Celebration

Janhvi's Cannes debut was made even more special by the presence of her co-stars and close ones. Ishaan Khatter, her Homebound co-star, was seen assisting her on the red carpet, a gesture that won hearts and added to the emotional tone of the event . Additionally, her sister Khushi Kapoor and rumored boyfriend Shikhar Pahariya were present to cheer her on, highlighting the strong support system around her .

Embracing Heritage and Modernity

Janhvi's choice of attire not only paid homage to her mother's legacy but also showcased Indian craftsmanship on an international platform. The Banaras-woven fabric and traditional design elements, combined with contemporary styling, struck a balance between heritage and modernity, resonating with audiences worldwide .

Looking Ahead

With her Cannes debut, Janhvi Kapoor has solidified her position as a global ambassador for Indian cinema and culture. Her performance in Homebound and her thoughtful fashion choices reflect a deep respect for her roots and a promising future in international cinema. 

For a glimpse of Janhvi Kapoor's stunning red carpet appearance at Cannes 2025.