Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Shines at Cannes 2026; Receives Support from Kangana Ranaut

The 79th Cannes Film Festival, held from May 12 to May 23, wrapped up after nearly two weeks of glamorous red carpets, film premieres, and celebrity buzz, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan once again emerging as one of the event’s most talked-about stars.

Making her 24th appearance at the prestigious festival, Rai closed Cannes in dramatic fashion in an all-white ensemble by Chinese designer Cheney Chan. The layered tuxedo-inspired outfit, complete with intricate detailing and a feather boa, drew widespread attention for its bold elegance. The actor’s confident appearance silenced earlier speculation that she might skip this year’s festival altogether.

Before the closing ceremony, Rai had already made headlines with two distinct fashion moments. For her first appearance, she wore Luminara, a sculptural blue couture gown by Indian designer Amit Aggarwal. Inspired by the theme of “light in motion,” the outfit featured metallic detailing and was paired with a flowing dupatta, diamond jewellery, pink-toned makeup, and her signature red lipstick.

Her second appearance came at the sixth edition of the Lights On Women’s Worth Award, where she chose a pastel pink floral gown with a cape by Sophie Couture. The event was attended by several international celebrities, including Eva Longoria, Ariana Greenblatt, and Amy Jackson.

Despite the praise for her appearances, Rai also faced age-shaming comments and criticism online regarding her outfits. Actor and politician Kangana Ranaut came out strongly in her support through an Instagram post.

“Fashion and style is a self expression. It is one’s own interpretation of life and their attitude. No woman owes anything to anyone. Ash looks great! Those of you who want to see her any other way, why don’t you show what you got?” Kangana wrote.

“She is not here to please you. She is glorious. If you are not used to seeing older women on red carpets, get used to them now. Thanks,” she added.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has represented L’Oréal Paris at Cannes since 2003 as the beauty brand’s global ambassador and remains one of the festival’s most enduring Indian icons.