Cannes 2025: Homebound, Tanvi The Great & More Indian Films Shining on the Global Stage

India takes center stage at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, which kicks off on May 13, marking a significant moment in the country’s cinematic journey. With acclaimed films in the spotlight and glamorous red carpet appearances, this year signals a major leap in India’s growing presence at the world’s most prestigious film festival.

Homebound, starring Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter, is set to be showcased at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, this marks his second feature film and also features Vishal Jethwa in a key role. Backed by Karan Johar and with legendary Hollywood filmmaker Martin Scorsese on board as executive producer, Homebound has been selected for the prestigious Un Certain Regard section—highlighting distinctive and daring cinematic voices.

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Tanvi The Great, directed by Hansal Mehta, is another standout Indian entry at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. The film stars rising talent Jyoti Deshpande in a powerful role that blends emotional depth with a socially relevant narrative. Known for his grounded storytelling, Mehta brings a fresh and poignant tale to the global stage.

A Doll Made Up of Clay, directed by Tathagata Ghosh, is one of the bold new voices representing Indian cinema at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. The film tells a powerful and intimate story of identity, resilience, and transformation, centered on a trans protagonist navigating a complex social landscape. With its emotionally charged narrative and striking visuals, the film has been selected for the ACID (Association for the Distribution of Independent Cinema) section—an honour that reflects its artistic bravery and indie spirit.

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Satyajit Ray’s timeless classic Aranyer Din Ratri returns to the global spotlight at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Originally released in 1970, the film is celebrated for its nuanced portrayal of urban-rural dynamics and human relationships. The inclusion of Aranyer Din Ratri not only pays tribute to Ray’s cinematic legacy but also highlights India’s rich film heritage on the international stage.