Cannes 2023: Aishwarya Rai leads Asian stars on the red carpet

Every year, the enchanting French Riviera comes alive with a whirlwind of glitz, glamour, and top cinematic talent as the Cannes Film Festival gets underway. The city is abuzz with excitement as the 76th edition of the prestigious festival began this week.

From May 16 to May 27, the iconic Palais des Festivals et des Congrès de Cannes will be the hub of cinematic brilliance and dazzling fashion.

This year, like previous ones, newcomers and established stars from the Indian film industry will walk the red carpet.

Indian actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, a veteran of the Cannes red carpet, walked the red carpet on Thursday (18), in a captivating Sophie Couture sequin gown, featuring a striking bow and hood. Rai completed her ensemble with her signature matte make-up, bright red lips, and sleek, poker-straight hair styled with a sharp middle parting.

Earlier in the day, she marked her first appearance at Cannes 2023 in a stunning shimmery green kaftan gown ensemble by Valentino paired with towering heels.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 18: Aishwarya Rai attends the "Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny" red carpet during the 76th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 18, 2023 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images)

Indian actresses Sara Ali Khan and Mrunal Thakur also walked the red carpet earlier in the week.

Sara made her debut at the Croisette in a pastel lehenga dress by Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla. On Wednesday (17), she wore a white saree accompanied by a monochrome blouse, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the designers.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 17: Sara Ali Khan attends the "Monster" red carpet during the 76th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 17, 2023 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

Mrunal Thakur looked ethereal in a white cut-out structured gown by Falguni Shane Peacock, with a feathery sheer train.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 18: Mrunal Thakur attends the "Black Flies" red carpet during the 76th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 18, 2023 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

Esha Gupta, who won the Miss India International title in 2007 and the Former Miss World and actress Manushi Chhillar also walked the red carpet.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 16: Esha Gupta attends the "Jeanne du Barry" Screening & opening ceremony red carpet at the 76th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 16, 2023 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images)

Esha exuded elegance in an all-white ensemble - a Nicholas Jebran gown that featured a floral bodice and a high, exaggerated collar. The outfit boasted a 3D flower design, with a thigh-high slit and deep plunging neckline.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 16: Manushi Chhillar attends the "Jeanne du Barry" Screening & opening ceremony red carpet at the 76th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 16, 2023 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images)

Manushi was dressed in a pristine white fairy-tale gown by Fovari, with exquisite lace bodice and a trailing train. A striking statement piece completed her look.

Urvashi Rautela turned heads with in a vibrant hot pink tulle gown by Sima Couture. However, stealing the spotlight was her breathtaking and extravagant Cartier crocodile necklace, which added a touch of luxury to her ensemble.

Urvashi Rautela - Image Credit: Instagram

Also, in recognition of her talent and style, Fagun Thakrar received an official invitation to the festival. The actress and film director wore a custom-made blue dress by renowned Paris couture designer, Sima Couture, on the prestigious opening night.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 16: Fagun Thakrar attends the "Jeanne du Barry" Screening & opening ceremony red carpet at the 76th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 16, 2023 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

Dubai Bling star and self-made millionaire, Farhana Bodi also made a striking appearance on the Cannes red carpet. Known for her glamorous lifestyle showcased in the popular reality series, Farhana is a prominent social media influencer, entrepreneur, and avid traveller.

Farhana Bodi - Image Credit: Instagram

She was dressed in a lemon feather gown adorned with a magnificent bow and a trail that extended a remarkable three metres. The ensemble, crafted by the renowned atelier Zuhra, exuded an air of elegance and sophistication. To add a touch of sparkle, she accessorized with custom diamond ear cuffs designed exclusively by Renu Oberoi luxury jewellery, adding a dash of glamour to her overall look.