Cannes 2026: a strong Indian presence at the 79th edition, Payal Kapadia on the jury

Cannes (France), May 12. The 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival — one of the world's most prestigious — opened on Tuesday and runs through May 23.

Indian cinema in the spotlight

Several Indian films are expected to screen at the festival this year, including titles such as "September 21", "Chardikala", "Gudgudi", "Shadow of the Moonless Night", "Amma Ariyan", and "Lakadbaggha 2".

Payal Kapadia returns

Director Payal Kapadia, who won the Grand Prix in 2024 for "All We Imagine as Light", returned to Cannes this year as Jury President of Critics' Week — a moment of pride for Indian cinema.

India on the global stage

From the red carpet to the competition sections, the growing presence of Indian artists and filmmakers at Cannes underscores the global recognition of the country's cinema. The festival's main awards will be announced at its close.