Cannes, France – The 79th Cannes Film Festival concluded last night, and it was a year of significant recognition for Indian cinema! From standing ovations to prestigious awards, Indian filmmakers and actors left an indelible mark on the international stage. News Reporter Live brings you all the highlights from the Croisette.
Director Neeraj Ghaywan's poignant drama, "Ghar Waapsi" (Coming Home), starring veteran Naseeruddin Shah and newcomer Fatima Sana Shaikh, clinched the coveted Jury Prize in the Un Certain Regard section. The film, a touching portrayal of a family grappling with displacement and cultural identity, resonated deeply with the jury and audiences alike. This marks Ghaywan's second major win at Cannes, following his success with "Masaan" in 2015.
"Ghar Waapsi" Wins Hearts and the Jury Prize
“I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude,” Ghaywan expressed to News Reporter Live after receiving the award. “This film is a labour of love, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see it connect with people from all walks of life. Naseer sir and Fatima brought such depth and authenticity to their roles. This award is for India!” The film is slated for an OTT release on Netflix India later this year. Initial reviews are pouring in, with critics praising the film's sensitive storytelling and powerful performances.
Meanwhile, in the short film category, "Sandhya's Silence," directed by Mumbai-based filmmaker Riya Sharma, received a special mention. The film, a silent narrative exploring the inner world of a young woman navigating urban loneliness, captivated audiences with its visual storytelling and evocative atmosphere. Sharma, a recent graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), is already being hailed as a promising talent. Her film is expected to be picked up by Amazon Prime Video soon.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: Still a Cannes Queen
Beyond the awards, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan continued her reign as the queen of the Cannes red carpet. Her appearances generated a frenzy of media attention, with her stunning outfits and timeless elegance captivating fans worldwide. This year, she walked the carpet for L'Oréal Paris, looking radiant as ever. Speaking to international reporters, she expressed her pride in representing India on such a prestigious platform.
The Indian pavilion at Cannes also buzzed with activity, showcasing upcoming projects and fostering collaborations between Indian and international filmmakers. Several deals were reportedly signed, paving the way for exciting new ventures in the coming years. reportersays that the festival has cemented India's position as a major force in global cinema.
Box Office Buzz and OTT Release Plans
While "Ghar Waapsi" is heading for Netflix, other Indian films are making waves at the domestic box office. "Agent Vinod Reloaded," starring Varun Dhawan, continues its successful run, raking in ₹150 crore in its third week. The action-thriller, directed by Sriram Raghavan, has been a crowd-pleaser, particularly among younger audiences. For more movie reviews, visit our Movies & Reviews section.
As Cannes wraps up, the spotlight now shifts to upcoming releases. All eyes are on Karan Johar’s next directorial venture, a romantic drama starring Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh, slated for release in Diwali. And for cricket fans, don't miss our live coverage of the ongoing India-Australia test series; you can follow all the action on our Live Cricket page.
Explore More on News Reporter Live
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Indian film won an award at Cannes 2026?
Neeraj Ghaywan's "Ghar Waapsi" (Coming Home) won the Jury Prize in the Un Certain Regard section at the 79th Cannes Film Festival. Riya Sharma's "Sandhya's Silence" received a special mention in the short film category.
Where can I watch "Ghar Waapsi"?
"Ghar Waapsi" is slated for an OTT release on Netflix India later this year. Keep checking News Reporter Live for the official release date announcement.
Who starred in "Ghar Waapsi"?
"Ghar Waapsi" stars veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah and newcomer Fatima Sana Shaikh in leading roles. Their performances have been widely praised by critics.