As the Cannes Film Festival remains the talk of the town this year, one sentiment continues to echo across social media — fans deeply miss the presence of Deepika Padukone. From her iconic red carpet moments to representing India on the global stage with grace and confidence, Deepika truly became the “Cannes Queen,” and her absence this year feels noticeable.
From making her mark as Indian cinema’s biggest superstar to becoming a celebrated global icon, Deepika Padukone has consistently represented India on the world stage with grace and excellence. One of the proudest milestones in her international journey came in 2022, when she served as a jury member at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Significantly, since she was the first Indian in nearly a decade to be chosen for the main Competition jury since 2013.
Deepika’s presence at Cannes that year was more than just a representation moment, it was a celebration of her remarkable journey, credibility as an artist, and growing global influence. Sharing the jury panel with some of the most respected names from world cinema, the actress represented Indian cinema with pride and dignity.
Reflecting on the honour, Deepika had shared an emotional statement about how far she had come in her career by Deepika Padukone during the 75th Cannes Film Festival in May 2022, where she served as a prestigious member of the main competition jury, also quoting 75 years of India at inauguration of the India Pavilion.
“15 years ago, when I came to this industry, I don’t think anyone had faith in me, or my talent. So, 15 years later, to be a part of the jury and to be experiencing some of the best cinema in the world has been an incredible journey and I am truly grateful for that”.
She further added, “I feel as a nation, we have it. We have the talent, we have the ability and I think, we just need that sort of conviction”. Making a strong statement, “I truly believe there will come a day when India won’t have to be at Cannes, and Cannes (film festival) will be in India,” she concluded.