Actor Chhaya Kadam, known for her role as Manju Mai in Kiran Rao’s series Laapataa Ladies, made a deeply emotional and symbolic debut at the Cannes Film Festival 2024. Kadam walked the red carpet at the prestigious event adorned in her late mother’s cherished saree and nose ring, capturing the attention of global media.
In a heartfelt tribute, Chhaya took to social media to share her emotions, reminiscing about her unfulfilled dream of traveling with her mother. “Mom, my dream of taking you on a plane ride remained unfulfilled….but today, I am satisfied that I brought your saree and nose ring with me on the plane to the Cannes Film Festival,” she wrote in Marathi.
She added, “Still, Mom! I wish you were here today to see all this. Love you, Mummy, and miss you a lot.” Alongside this touching tribute, Chhaya shared a delightful moment spent with renowned music composer AR Rahman at the festival, describing their encounter as a cherished memory.
Chhaya Kadam’s presence at Cannes was not merely symbolic; she represented the Indian film All We Imagine As Light, directed by Payal Kapadia, in the prestigious Palme d’Or competition. This Indo-French production is significant as the first Indian entry to compete in the main category at Cannes in three decades.
The film narrates the compelling story of a nurse named Prabha, portrayed by Kadam, whose life takes an unexpected turn after receiving a gift from her estranged husband, leading to profound introspection and transformation.
The Cannes Film Festival will conclude on May 25, 2024.
