Indian actor Nitanshi Goel made a remarkable debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, using her platform not only to celebrate global cinema but also to shine a heartfelt spotlight on the legacy of Indian film. Best known for her role in Laapataa Ladies, Nitanshi turned heads with a look that seamlessly blended age-old Indian artistry with modern-day elegance.
Perhaps the most captivating element of Nitanshi’s Cannes appearance was her one-of-a-kind pearl hair accessory, meticulously handcrafted by Be Abhika. This unique accessory wasn’t just a fashion statement-it was a moving tribute. The hairpiece featured cascading strands of pearls adorned with dainty gold frames, each holding a black-and-white portrait of an iconic Indian actress.
In a stunning ode to Indian cinema, Nitanshi honored screen legends such as Madhubala, Rekha, Sridevi, Vyjayanthimala, Hema Malini, Waheeda Rehman, and Nutan. Each portrait celebrated the women who defined elegance, strength, and artistry for generations of moviegoers.
Wearing heritage with grace
To complement the storytelling hair accessory, Nitanshi wore a graceful pre-draped saree by acclaimed Indian designers Monica and Karishma of the label Jade. Rendered in a soft ivory hue, the ensemble was a study in fluidity and craftsmanship.
The saree, complete with an extended trail, featured intricate bow-shaped embroidery, 3D floral embellishments, and fine paisley motifs-crafted using ancient resist-dyeing techniques that hark back to India’s rich textile traditions. It was a poetic fusion of heritage and youthfulness, effortlessly worn by one of the youngest Indian stars at Cannes this year.
Celebrity stylists Shrey and Urja curated Nitanshi’s look with a thoughtful touch, keeping the focus on elegance and symbolism. Her blouse-handcrafted with pearl and beadwork-evoked a sense of vintage heirloom finesse. She paired the ensemble with minimal yet striking bow-shaped earrings, tying the theme of subtle femininity together with finesse.
A young star honoring the past while looking to the future
At just 16, Nitanshi Goel has already proven herself as a performer. But at Cannes 2025, she took her admiration for cinema to another level. Her Cannes appearance wasn’t just a red carpet moment-it was a love letter to Indian storytelling, costume craftsmanship, and the enduring power of film legends.
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