Nitanshi Goel makes Cannes red carpet debut with moving ode to Bollywood icons Madhubala, Sridevi, Hema, Rekha. See pics
Laapataa Ladies-fame actor Nitanshi Goel made a stunning debut on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet on Thursday. The 17-year-old starlet first appeared in an ivory saree and an elaborate hairdo that paid tribute to some of the most iconic female stars of Hindi cinema. Nitanshi then changed into a black gown for another appearance on the famed red carpet.
Nitanshi's first look at the French Riviera saw her draped in an ivory saree. She appeared at the India Pavillion at Cannes in a look that caught the attention of fans as her hair was adorned with pins featuring the faces of some of the most iconic and successful female stars in Bollywood history, including Madhubala, Meena Kumari, Rekha, Waheeda Rehman, Sridevi, Nutan, Hema Malini, and Vyjanthimala. According to India Today, she was styled by Shrey and Urja for the day, who kept accessories minimal. Nitanshi's outfit also paid tribute to Indian craftsmanship. The blouse was intricately handcrafted with pearl and bead detailing, reminiscent of vintage Indian heirloom work.
Later in the evening, Nitanshi walked the red carpet in an elaborate black gown with gold embroidery on it. The teenage star, who shot to fame with the Oscar-bound Laapataa Ladies in 2023, attended the screening of the film Dossier 137. The outfit seemed to flirt a little with Cannes' new dress code that bans anything extravagant and with a long tail, so as to not inconvenience others on the red carpet
Speaking to Brut from the red carpet, Nitanshi said, "I am feeling very excited. I have butterflies in my stomach. Oh my God! This really feels like a dream come true. It feels incredibly special to be here at Cannes this year. It's my first time, and I am feeling very overwhelmed, and very grateful to be able to represent India on the global stage."
Apart from Nitanshi, this year, several Indian stars are expected to be seen at the Cannes Film Festival, including Alia Bhatt who will be making her debut, Cannes regular Aishwarya Rai, actors Ishan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor for the premiere of their film Homebound, and veteran actor Sharmila Tagore for the screening of her film Aranyer Din Ratri.
The Cannes Film Festival began on May 13 and will go on till May 24. Director Payal Kapadia is part of the main jury of the festival this year.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
27 minutes ago
- Time of India
FWICE Calls Diljit Dosanjh Security Threat to India Over Border 2 Shoot
RAJKUMMAR RAO TO PLAY SOURAV GANGULY IN BIOPIC | 'NOW THAT DADA SAID IT…' It's finally official, Rajkummar Rao will step into the shoes of cricket legend Sourav Ganguly for his highly awaited biopic! The National Award-winning actor confirmed the news after Ganguly hinted at it earlier. Rajkummar called it a 'huge responsibility' and admitted he's nervous but excited. With the film set to capture Ganguly's iconic journey and the transformation of Indian cricket, fans are in for something unforgettable. From learning Bengali from wife Patralekhaa to prepping for the pitch, Rajkummar is all in 399 views | 2 days ago
The Print
32 minutes ago
- The Print
Kolhapuris get Prada makeover at Rs 1.2 lakh: Where's the credit, fume activists as label acknowledges ‘inspiration'
'I am deeply annoyed and disgusted by the way Prada has appropriated something deeply Indian and traditional — without giving any recognition to the craftspeople or the culture it comes from. This is a metaphor for how we in India often undervalue our own heritage, dismissing it as primitive or merely 'handicraft,' while the world repackages it as luxury,' designer and activist Laila Tyabji, who has worked with craftspersons for decades, told PTI. That the GI-tagged footwear, a symbol of Indian craft that goes back centuries was appropriated by the Italian luxury label which featured it in Spring/Summer 2026 show, led to a massive debate on cultural theft and giving artisans their rightful due. New Delhi, Jun 28 (PTI) The humble kolhapuri, style statement for affordable ethnic elegance and simply staple wear for many, catapulted to the rarefied runways of Milan with Prada rebranding the handcrafted chappal 'leather flat sandals' at Rs 1.2 lakh. The outrage was instant and intense. 'It's time we acknowledged that India holds extraordinary skills and knowledge systems. We must recognise, protect, and proudly present them to the world—before others steal and sell our identity back to us,' the Dastkar chairperson added. Several days later, as the debate escalated in India, Prada acknowledged the connection and said the design is 'inspired' by the Indian handcrafted footwear. It said the sandal featured in the men's 2026 fashion show is still at the design stage and none of the pieces worn by models on the ramp are confirmed to be commercialised. 'We are committed to responsible design practices, fostering cultural engagement, and opening a dialogue for a meaningful exchange with local Indian artisan communities as we have done in the past in other collections to ensure the rightful recognition of their craft,' Prada's group head for corporate social responsibility, Lorenzo Bertelli, said in reply to a letter by the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA). The industry lobby had sought exploration collaborations and fair compensation to the artisans and also adherence to ethical fashion practices that respect traditional knowledge and cultural rights. For many though, the initial absence of credit for Kolhapuris, paraded as cutting-edge high fashion for clients who are the polar opposite of the regular Kolhapuri wearer, was the most important takeaway from the glam Milan moment. Kolhapuri chappals are typically handcrafted and manufactured in the Maharashtra town of Kolhapur, from where they take their name, and the surrounding districts of Sangli, Satara and Solapur. The craft has a legacy dating back to the 12th or 13th century. Originally patronised by the royals of the region, Kolhapuri sandals were crafted by the local cobbler community using vegetable-tanned leather and were entirely handmade — using no nails or synthetic components. They're also known for their signature T-strap shape, detailed braiding, and open-toe design — a perfect blend of practicality and fashion. In 2019, Kolhapuri chappals were granted GI tag status by the government of India, recognising them as a unique product tied to eight districts across Maharashtra and Karnataka. This legal status protects the craftsmanship and origin from imitation, and helps promote economic security for rural artisans. A PIL against Prada could well be in the works. GI expert and heritage rights advocate Ganesh Hingare is already collating documents to sue the luxury fashion brand for what he describes as 'intellectual property infringement under Section 22 of the GI Act'. 'This isn't the first time India has faced such appropriation. We've fought and won similar battles before — like in the turmeric patent case and the basmati rice case in the US. 'This is not just about a pair of chappals. This is about cultural theft, disrespect to artisans, and violation of India's GI laws. An apology is not just due to Kolhapur, but India,' Hingare, who has worked on over 100 GI-tagged products, including 59 from Maharashtra alone, told PTI. In Maharashtra, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dhananjay Mahadik, who belongs to Kolhapur, led a delegation of traditional Kolhapuri chappal artisans to meet Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Social media is also abuzz with accusations of cultural appropriation. Global footwear brand Bata called out Prada for rebranding what 'India has cherished for centuries'. 'It's a reminder that heritage always leads, and trends follow,' said Deepika Deepti, head of marketing at Bata India. 'The Kolhapuri chappal is not a 'design discovery' — it's a living tradition. At Bata India, we've proudly brought this craftsmanship to millions, long before it appeared on international runways. Real originality doesn't come with a luxury tag — it comes with legacy,' she said. The Prada projection has had an unexpected fallout. In Delhi's popular Janpath market, Ashok Grover has been selling a wide range of Kolhapuri chappals since the 1970s. Demand has been dwindling but suddenly there is a flood of inquiries. 'These luxury companies first invest, then go all out on marketing, create hype around products — which aren't even theirs — and finally slap an extravagant price on them. I saw the picture of that chappal — at best, it wouldn't cost more than Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000. And here, I can't even sell the same article for Rs 1,000,' said the owner of Maujri Collections, one of the oldest shops in Janpath. When he started his business, the slippers were being sold for just Rs 10. So when and how did Kolhapuris really become a rage, part of the quintessential kurta, pyjama and ethnic jhola look loved by college students, aspiring politicians, and so many more. Some cite the 1979 Hindi blockbuster 'Suhaag' in which Amitabh Bachchan — who plays a cop — has a memorable exchange with a corrupt seth (businessman) : 'Yeh kya hai?' 'Chappal' 'Kaunsa?' 'Kolhapuri', as he takes off his slipper and slaps him hard with it. It's not just Kolhapuri chappals that have fallen prey to cultural appropriation. Experts also cite the humble Indian jhola, typically priced between Rs 200–300 in local markets, now being sold as a Rs 4,000 'India souvenir tote' on luxury American retail site Nordstrom. Traditional dupattas have been rebranded as 'Scandinavian scarves', while intricately embroidered lehengas are being passed off as trendy 'Y2K maxi skirts'. On the flip side, some fashion experts believe the sudden global attention on Kolhapur chappals can help fuel the revival of this traditional unisex footwear. Celebrity fashion designer Bhawna Rao believes the moment will 'spark curiosity, draw investment, and invite younger generations to engage with heritage crafts in new ways'. Shirin Mann, founder of footwear label NEEDLEDUST — known for reinventing the traditional Indian 'jutti' — said Prada has brought 'massive recall value' to the Kolhapuri chappal. 'Until now, it hadn't been considered part of the 'cool' or aspirational footwear space in India's luxury market… I truly believe in the ripple effect of what Prada has done. 'While it may not be a direct collaboration, the global visibility can be powerful, boosting awareness, reviving demand, creating jobs, and most importantly, sparking a renewed appreciation for the craftsmanship of the artisans,' said Mann, adding that global reinterpretations are inevitable, but they 'should come with context, credit, and ideally, collaboration'. PTI MG AA MIN MIN MIN This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
Time of India
33 minutes ago
- Time of India
"When I met her last time, she looked very happy...": Raza Murad expresses sorrow over Shefali Jariwala's sudden death
Actor Raza Murad has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the untimely death of actress-model Shefali Jariwala, who passed away at the age of 42. Actor Raza Murad has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the untimely death of actress-model Shefali Jariwala, who passed away at the age of 42. Known for her iconic role in the 'Kaanta Laga' music video, Jariwala's sudden passing has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry. Speaking to ANI, Murad said, "Shefali Jariwala's death is such a shock, such a shock that no one could have imagined in their dreams. She had such a beautiful, such a glamorous, and such a happening personality. One song had given her the status of a superstar. She had created a sensation all over the world. She looked like a rock star." Murad went on to recall his personal meeting with Jariwala, describing her as a lively and vibrant person. "We met at an event in Chandigarh. She had a very lively heart. And when I met her last time, she looked very happy. She was glowing. Her eyes looked as if you were looking at two shining diamonds." Murad added, "We can only pray to God, for the peace of her soul, that wherever she lives, she should be happy. She had some sorrows and pains. Everyone has them. Now, she is free from all sorrows and pains." Murad concluded, "She has left us forever. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Thị trường có dấu hiệu suy thoái không? IC Markets Đăng ký Undo But she has left her memories. She has left her song, which will always remain in our hearts and minds, in our memories, till the end of time." Shefali Jariwala, whose career skyrocketed after her appearance in the hit 2002 music video 'Kaanta Laga', was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Mumbai on June 27, 2025, where she was declared dead upon arrival. While the exact cause of her death remains unclear, sources suggest that she may have suffered a cardiac arrest. Mumbai Police confirmed the news, "Shefali Jariwala died at the age of 42. She lived in the Andheri area of Mumbai. Members of her family had reached the hospital with her late last night and she was declared brought dead by doctors there. Mumbai Police received information around 1 am last night. A postmortem is being done at Cooper Hospital. The cause of death is not yet clear." The All Indian Cine Workers Association also expressed its grief over her passing on social media. In a heartfelt message, they wrote, "Shefali Jariwala is no longer with us. Gone too soon at just 42 due to a sudden heart attack. It's hard to believe she's gone. May her soul rest in peace, and may God give strength to her family during this heartbreaking time." Jariwala was widely celebrated for her 2002 appearance in 'Kaanta Laga', which became an iconic moment in Indian pop culture. She later expanded her career into Bollywood with notable roles in the 2004 film 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi', alongside Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar . Additionally, she gained recognition on television with appearances in popular reality shows, including Bigg Boss 13 (2019) and Nach Baliye (seasons 5 and 7), where she participated alongside her husband, actor Parag Tyagi. Beyond her acting career, Shefali was an advocate for mental health awareness and women's empowerment. She openly discussed her struggles with epilepsy, using her platform to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges.
