Alia Bhatt heads to Cannes, quashes rumours of skipping film festival due to India-Pakistan tensions

Actress Alia Bhatt is ready for Cannes. The actress was spotted at Mumbai airport, departing to participate in the Cannes Film Festival 2025 shortly after speculation arose that she could withdraw from her first appearance due to the India-Pakistan tensions.

Alia was seen at the Mumbai airport on Friday morning, traveling to the French Riviera for her much-anticipated debut at the Cannes Film Festival, where she will grace the red carpet.

Alia showcased elegant fashion at the airport, wearing a beige trench coat over a snug white top and loose blue jeans, paired with dark aviator sunglasses. She offered a quick smile to the paparazzi before entering the airport.

Alia’s arrival at the airport follows days of speculation that she could forgo the film festival to support India following the Pahalgam terror attack that strained India-Pakistan relations.

Alia’s debut at the Cannes Film Festival was through her association with beauty brand L’Oréal Paris. She is expected to join Aishwarya Rai at the film festival, which opened on May 13.

“There’s something absolutely special about firsts — and I’m so excited to make my Festival de Cannes debut this year, an iconic celebration of cinema and self-expression. It is such an honour to represent L’Oréal Paris at the Festival with this year’s theme, ‘Lights, Beauty and Action’. To me, beauty is about celebrating individuality, confidence and self worth. It’s limitless, it’s unique. I’m proud to stand with a brand that celebrates every woman’s journey and empowers them to shine in their own light,” Alia said at the time of the announcement.