From Mumbai to Malayalam heartlands, Indian cinema expands its global footprint

Last updated: May 08, 2026 | 16:06

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan AFP-ALBERTO PIZZOLI

Dubai: The 2026 edition of the Cannes Film Festival is shaping up to be a major moment for Indian cinema, with stars, filmmakers, and regional storytellers gearing up to make their presence felt on the French Riviera from May 12 to 23.

Get updated faster and for FREE : Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here .

From Bollywood regulars like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to first-time attendees representing Punjabi, Marathi, Gujarati, and Malayalam cinema, India’s line-up this year reflects the growing diversity and global ambitions of the country’s entertainment industry.

Bollywood’s Cannes brigade returns

One of Cannes’ most photographed Indian faces, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, is expected to walk the red carpet once again as a global ambassador for L’Oréal.…