CANNES, 15 May 2025 – In a compelling display of cultural diplomacy and cinematic ambition, the Bharat Pavilion was officially inaugurated at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, highlighting India’s growing presence on the global entertainment stage. The event underscored India’s strategic push to position itself as a major hub for international film collaboration, content creation, and cross-cultural dialogue.
The inauguration ceremony was marked by the presence of high-profile dignitaries including acclaimed filmmaker and IFFI/NFDC Festival Director Shekhar Kapur, veteran actor Anupam Kher, and Anne-Louise Mésadieu, elected official of the Paris Region and Special Delegate for Diplomatic Relations. Their participation underscored the strengthening ties between Indian and international film communities.
In her keynote address, Anne-Louise Mésadieu warmly welcomed the Bharat Pavilion to Cannes, praising India’s rich storytelling legacy and its unique ability to bridge cultures through cinema. She reaffirmed the French government’s commitment to facilitating Indo-French co-productions and creative partnerships.
Shekhar Kapur emphasized the transformative power of cinema and India’s emergence as a global creative force. “Cinema is not just art; it’s diplomacy and soft power,” he stated, underlining India’s role in reshaping narratives on the international stage.
A key moment of the event was the launch of the IFFI 2025 Poster and Trailer, described by Gautam Bhanot, GM, Film Promotion (Festivals, Market, and International Participation), NFDC India, as a symbol of the “convergence of creativity and technology.” The new branding reflects India’s commitment to innovation and leadership in global content creation.
The event also saw the unveiling of the India Film Guide, a comprehensive resource that showcases India’s diverse filmmaking talent, robust co-production incentives, and scenic shooting locations. Its launch signals India’s intent to actively court global collaborations and streamline international production efforts.
In a heartfelt address, Anupam Kher reflected on Indian cinema’s evolution and its growing stature in world cinema. “I am eight years younger than my country, and we both grew together. We have done very well,” he said, noting his joy at attending Cannes for the first time, describing it as the “Mahakumbh of cinema.”
Also in attendance were Rupjyoti Brahma Karjee, Consulate General of India, Marseille; Sreerag Mukundan, OSD, Films, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting; and Ravi Kottarakara, President, South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce – all of whom play pivotal roles in fostering Indo-French cultural and cinematic exchange.
Organised by NFDC and FICCI under the aegis of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, the Bharat Pavilion continues to serve as a key platform at Cannes, bringing together filmmakers, producers, and distributors under one cultural roof. As the festival progresses, India’s participation stands as a vibrant testament to creativity, collaboration, and cinematic excellence on the world stage.
