Actors usually put their best fashion foot forward to walk the red carpet, especially when it is for the Cannes Film Festival. Nitanshi Goel combined fashion with emotion as she made her debut at the festival with an homage to Madhubala, Rekha, Sridevi, and Hema Malini, among others. Goel, who rose to fame with her debut film Laapataa Ladies (2024), was seen sporting a pearl hair accessory (parandi) with frames of veteran actors created by jewellery brand BeAbhika.

Speaking to mid-day about the inspiration behind this gesture, she says the idea was to pay an homage that “felt personal yet celebratory”. “It came from love for the icons who’ve defined grace, strength, and cinematic brilliance in Indian cinema. Their presence has always felt timeless, and I wanted to carry their spirit with me to Cannes. These women walked so we could run,” beams Goel, who was part of the newly-inaugurated Bharat Pavilion — the government-backed platform at Cannes — aimed at promoting Indian cinema.

By representing India at the festival, her dream became a reality. She says, “I was there to celebrate our culture, stories, and the women who’ve shaped it so beautifully. The experience was filled with inspiration, heartfelt conversations, and warmth from people all over the world. I’ve returned with a heart full of gratitude.”

Still basking in the acclaim and accolades for Laapataa Ladies, Goel shares that the film’s glory is reflected in the offers she gets now. “The parts coming my way now are more layered and diverse. I feel ready to dive into stories that challenge me,” she says.

Nitanshi Goel holds her meeting with Rekha close to her heart. She shares that the yesteryear actor once told her, “Be patient with the journey, and protect your truth.”