India at Cannes 2024: A Look at Films, Creators, and What to Expect

The 77th Cannes Film Festival is upon us, and India is set to make a strong showing this year. From restored classics to fresh cinematic voices, here’s a breakdown of what to expect from the Indian contingent at Cannes 2024:

Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal’s iconic 1976 film ‘Manthan’ will be showcased in a restored version. Starring the legendary Smita Patil, the movie explores the story behind India’s rise as the world’s largest milk producer through the lens of Verghese Kurien’s revolutionary milk cooperative movement, ‘Operation Flood’, which gave birth to the billion-dollar brand Amul.

Kannada filmmaker Chidananda S. Naik’s debut short film, “Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know” (original title: Suryakanthihooge modhalugothagidhu), has been selected for the prestigious La Cinef competition section for film schools. This heartwarming story, narrated from a rooster’s perspective, is a testament to the burgeoning talent emerging from India’s diverse filmmaking scene.

Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia’s feature film “All We Imagine As Light” has taken the cinematic world by storm. Marking a historic moment, it will be the first Indian film in over three decades to compete for the coveted Palme d’Or, the highest honor bestowed at Cannes. This achievement highlights the growing global recognition of Indian cinema’s depth and artistry.

Neecha Nagar, a 1946 masterpiece by Chetan Anand, remains the only Indian film to have ever won the Palme d’Or. While another such victory might seem distant, the presence of these powerful contenders signifies India’s commitment to producing world-class cinema.

Last year, popular content creators Dolly Singh, Niharika NM, Masoom Minawala, Ranveer Allahbadia, Kusha Kapila and Ruhee Dosani were invited to experience the Cannes Film Festival. Whether they will return for 2024 remains to be seen. The Cannes India website primarily focuses on the film industry, so it’s possible the influencer contingent might change this year, with new faces representing the ever-evolving world of online content creation.

The India Pavilion at Cannes 2024 will likely continue its tradition of showcasing the vibrant tapestry of Indian cinema. Expect events, panels, and networking opportunities that delve deeper into the industry’s current landscape and future potential.

Cannes 2024 promises to be a momentous occasion for Indian cinema, celebrating both rich heritage and exciting new voices. As the festival unfolds, keep an eye out for these films and the stories they tell.