The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious events in the film industry, and Indian cinema is making a strong mark at the 78th edition of the festival. This year, five Indian films are turning heads on the global stage, showcasing the country's rich cinematic heritage and evolving narratives.

The Red Carpet Set : 5 Indian Films to Watch

Let's take a closer look at the five Indian films that are making waves at Cannes 2025:

Homebound: 

Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, this film is a standout in the Un Certain Regard category. Homebound is the story of two childhood friends from a quiet North Indian village who set their sights on a police job — a symbol of respect and recognition they’ve always yearned for. But as their dream draws near, growing pressure and desperation begin to test the strength of their lifelong friendship.

Aranyer Din Ratri (Days and Nights in the Forest): 

Satyajit Ray's timeless 1970 classic returns to Cannes in pristine form, following a meticulous restoration. The film centers on four friends seeking respite from city life in the forests of Palamau, only to find their introspective journey laced with revelations and self-discovery.

Tanvi: The Great: 

Directed by veteran actor Anupam Kher, this emotional drama follows Col. Pratap Raina as he grapples with grief and transformation following a life-altering personal loss. The narrative introduces Tanvi, a character who brings color, chaos, and clarity into his life, embodying themes of resilience and rediscovery.

A Doll Made Up of Clay: 

Representing the next generation of cinematic voices, this short film has been selected for the La Cinef section at Cannes. Created by Kokob Gebrehweria Tesfay, the film delves into themes of identity, displacement, and spiritual healing, as a young Nigerian footballer in India turns to his cultural roots in search of meaning and recovery.

Charak: 

Bringing cultural introspection to the fore, Shieladitya Moulik's Charak explores the intense ritual of Charak Puja—a traditional Bengali festival steeped in devotion and physical endurance. The film presents a stark examination of blind faith and the human condition.

Where is the Cannes Film Festival Held?
The Cannes Film Festival is held in Cannes, a picturesque city located on the French Riviera in southeastern France. Specifically, the festival takes place at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, situated on the famous La Croisette boulevard. This iconic venue attracts thousands of film professionals, journalists, and enthusiasts each year, showcasing the best of global cinema and providing a platform for filmmakers to gain international recognition. 

The Cannes Film Festival: A Global Platform

The Cannes Film Festival is a premier event in the film industry, showcasing the best of global cinema. 

The 78th edition of the festival is being conducted from May 13, 2025, to May 24, 2025, at the French Riviera. 

This festival provides a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work, connect with industry professionals, and gain international recognition. The Cannes Film Festival has a rigorous selection process, where a team of experts reviews thousands of submissions from around the world to curate a lineup of films that showcase innovation, creativity, and cinematic excellence. 

For the 2025 edition, five Indian films - Homebound, Aranyer Din Ratri, Tanvi: The Great, A Doll Made Up of Clay, and Charak - have made their way into the festival through this selective process. These films were chosen for their unique storytelling, exceptional filmmaking, and cultural significance, with each film fitting into different sections of the festival, such as Un Certain Regard, Classics, Cannes Film Market, and La Cinef. The selection of these films is a symbol  to the growing global recognition of Indian cinema and the talent of Indian filmmakers.

Why These Films Matter

These five Indian films are important because they showcase the country's diverse cinematic talent and perspectives. From classics to contemporary narratives, these films highlight India's rich cultural heritage and evolving storytelling styles. With international recognition and acclaim, these films are set to put Indian cinema on the global map. With films like Homebound and Tanvi: The Great, Indian filmmakers are pushing boundaries and exploring new themes and narratives. The inclusion of A Doll Made Up of Clay in the La Cinef section highlights the talent of emerging filmmakers in India.

The Cannes Film Festival is a celebration of cinematic excellence, and Indian films are making a strong mark this year. With five films showcasing diverse themes and narratives, Indian cinema is set to grab the spotlight on the global stage. Whether it's the timeless classic Aranyer Din Ratri or the contemporary narratives of Homebound and Tanvi: The Great, these films are sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide .