Mumbai (Commonwealth Union)_ As the Cannes Film Festival 2025 unfurls its red carpet, Indian cinema is emerging as a compelling force on the global stage. This year, five Indian films, each distinct in voice, genre, and vision, are captivating international audiences and industry insiders alike. From restored classics to bold debuts, these films underscore the diversity and creative power of Indian storytelling. Here’s a detailed look at the five Indian films making a significant impact at Cannes 2025.
Also read: India Leads the Pack in Forbes 30 Under 30 — Is a Global Youth Power Shift Underway?
Homebound – Neeraj Ghaywan’s Atmospheric Return
Among the most anticipated entries in the prestigious Un Certain Regard category is Homebound, a psychological drama that marks Neeraj Ghaywan’s return to the global festival circuit. Produced by Karan Johar and headlined by Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa, the film has already garnered widespread attention due to the involvement of legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese as executive producer. The narrative follows a young couple visiting a remote rural estate to reconnect with the husband’s estranged family. The serene backdrop quickly turns foreboding as the disappearance of the husband’s former wife and the children’s unsettling behavior unearth buried secrets. Janhvi Kapoor expressed her gratitude on social media, stating, “An honour beyond words. Thank you, @martinscorsese\_, for guiding HOMEBOUND with the grace and insight of a true master.”
Aranyer Din Ratri – A Restored Classic Returns
A gem from Indian cinema’s golden era, Satyajit Ray’s 1970 classic Aranyer Din Ratri (Days and Nights in the Forest) is receiving renewed acclaim with a meticulously restored version premiering at Cannes 2025. Thanks to the efforts of the Film Heritage Foundation, the film has been revitalized for a new generation of cinephiles. The story revolves around four city men seeking refuge in the forests of Palamau, where their journey becomes a contemplative exploration of self and society. The Cannes premiere is set to be a star-studded affair, with the presence of original cast member Sharmila Tagore and notable guests including director Wes Anderson, actress Simi Garewal, Margaret Bodde of The Film Foundation, and other prominent film preservationists.
Tanvi: The Great – Anupam Kher’s Directorial Debut
Veteran actor Anupam Kher makes his directorial debut with Tanvi: The Great, which will have its world premiere at the Marché du Film, Cannes’ industry-focused platform. This poignant narrative traces the emotional journey of Col. Pratap Raina, who is grappling with personal tragedy. Tanvi, a vibrant character, enters his life and becomes a catalyst for change, pushing him toward healing and self-discovery. Described by its makers as “more than a moment—it’s the beginning of a global journey,” the film is poised to make a resonant emotional impact on its international audience.
A Doll Made Up of Clay – A Student Film with Global Resonance
In the La Cinef section, dedicated to emerging voices from film schools around the world, A Doll Made Up of Clay is capturing hearts and minds. Directed by Kokob Gebrehweria Tesfay, an Ethiopian student from Kolkata’s Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, the short film is a profound meditation on identity, displacement, and resilience. The story follows a Nigerian footballer in India whose career-ending injury leaves him adrift. Through spiritual introspection and cultural reconnection, he embarks on a journey of healing. Produced by Sahil Manoj Ingle and executive produced by Uma Kumari, this film highlights the international scope and sensitivity of India’s young filmmakers.
Charak – A Visceral Dive into Ritual and Faith
Rounding off the list is Charak, directed by Shieladitya Moulik. The film takes a raw, unflinching look at Charak Puja, a traditional Bengali ritual known for its intensity and physical demands. Starring Anjali Patil, Sahidur Rahaman, and Subrat Dutta, the film explores themes of faith, pain, and social endurance. By interweaving the sacred with the psychological, Charak poses urgent questions about belief and the human capacity for suffering in the name of devotion.
Cannes 2025
Five Indian films that are making a powerful mark on the global stage are not merely a celebration of India’s cinematic offerings; they are a testament to the country’s evolving voice on the international platform. From restored masterpieces to bold new narratives, these films affirm that Indian cinema is not just participating in global discourse; it’s shaping it.
