How 17-year-old 'Laapataa Ladies' actor Nitanshi Goel stole the show at Cannes 2025

At just 17, Nitanshi Goel, known for her role in Laapataa Ladies, has taken the Cannes Film Festival 2025 by storm with a debut that exudes grace, elegance, and a tribute to Bollywood’s finest. As a budding fashionista with a flair for pulling off any style with finesse, Nitanshi’s red carpet appearance at the 78th edition of Cannes is nothing short of a fashion moment we’ll never forget.For her first look, the young actress chose a custom pre-draped saree by Jade by Monica and Karishma, a decision that beautifully balanced modernity with traditional glamour. The saree, with its long trail, was an absolute showstopper, but it was the intricate pearl-studded blouse that added an additional layer of sophistication to her ensemble.What truly captured everyone's attention, however, was her unique choice of a hair accessory, a tribute to legendary Indian actresses. Nitanshi tied her hair in a neat braid, which cascaded down gracefully, but it was the custom-crafted hairpiece by Abhika that stole the show. Adorned with delicate pearl strands, the accessory featured miniature photos of Bollywood icons like Madhubala, Rekha, Sridevi, Waheeda Rehman, Nutan, Hema Malini, and Vyjayanthi Mala.This creative homage not only showcased Nitanshi's respect for the pioneers of Indian cinema but also brought their timeless beauty to the global stage.Her second appearance on the red carpet took a dramatic turn when she switched into a black gown adorned with gold embroidery, walking confidently at the screening of Dossier 137. This gown, with its intricate detailing, was a departure from her first look but carried the same elegance and poise. Despite Cannes' new dress code, which bans long tails and extravagant trains, Nitanshi’s gown seemed to toe the line with a flourish, reminding us that youthful charm and bold fashion know no boundaries.Nitanshi’s first appearance at the Cannes Film Festival not only wowed the fashion world but also highlighted her deep connection with India’s cinematic heritage. Her hair accessory was more than just a decoration it was a visual narrative, connecting the past and present of Indian film in the most graceful way possible.Styled by Shrey and Urja, Nitanshi’s looks were kept minimal on the accessories front to ensure the saree and hair accessory were the focal points. The pearl and bead detailing on her blouse evoked a sense of vintage Indian craftsmanship, adding a rich cultural layer to her global debut. Her choice to showcase Indian artistry at Cannes was a proud moment, underscoring how fashion and heritage can come together to create something truly spectacular.As Nitanshi continues to shine on the international stage, her appearance at Cannes is a testament to her poised journey as a young star and style icon. And with so many Bollywood names slated to attend this year’s festival, including Alia Bhatt, Aishwarya Rai, Janhvi Kapoor, and Ishan Khatter, Nitanshi’s debut reminds us that the future of Indian cinema and fashion is bright and this young actress is just getting started.