The Cannes Film Festival, renowned for its glamour and prestige, witnessed an emotional tribute this year as actress Chhaya Kadam walked the red carpet wearing her late mother’s saree. In a heartfelt gesture that resonated with fans and attendees alike, Kadam shared that this act was her way of bringing her mother along to one of the most significant moments of her career.
Chhaya Kadam, celebrated for her roles in films such as ‘Laapata Ladies’ and ‘Madgaon Express,’ made her debut at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, representing her Malayalam movie ‘All We Imagine As Light.’ Helmed by director Payal Kapadia, the film is a significant entry, being the first Indian film in three decades to compete in the main category for the Palme d’Or.
In an interview with Brut, Chhaya Kadam opened up about the emotional experience tied to her attire. “Two days before I left for Cannes, I saw the saree and said, ‘I couldn’t take you with me, but I will wear your saree in Cannes,'” she revealed, explaining the deep personal significance behind her choice of outfit for this monumental event.
Chhaya took to Instagram to share her look from the French Riviera, where she wore the saree along with a traditional Maharashtrian nath (nose ring). In a touching caption written in Marathi, she expressed, “My dream of taking you on a flight remained unfulfilled….but today I am content that I brought your saree and nose ring to the Cannes Film Festival by flight. Still, Mom! I wish you were here today. To see all this. Love you, Mom, and miss you a lot.” This post tugged at the heartstrings of many, garnering widespread admiration and emotional responses from her followers.
The film ‘All We Imagine As Light,’ which Chhaya was promoting, tells the story of Prabha, a nurse who receives an unexpected gift from her long-estranged husband, sparking feelings of unease. Meanwhile, her younger friend and roommate, Anu, is on a quest to find a quiet spot to be with her lover.
. The narrative takes an introspective turn when the two women embark on a road trip to a beach town, eventually finding a space where their dreams and desires can flow freely.
Director Payal Kapadia, who has a rich background in filmmaking, including notable works like ‘The Night of Knowing Nothing,’ which won the Golden Eye for Best Documentary in 2021, brings life to this poignant story. Kapadia, an alumna of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, has previously directed films such as ‘Watermelon, Fish and Half Ghost,’ ‘The Last Mango Before the Monsoon,’ and ‘Afternoon Clouds.’
The 2024 Cannes Film Festival not only marked a milestone in Chhaya Kadam’s career but also served as a heartfelt homage to her late mother. The saree she wore became a symbol of love and remembrance, adding a deeply personal narrative to her red-carpet appearance.
Chhaya Kadam’s journey to Cannes with ‘All We Imagine As Light’ has been filled with anticipation and pride. The film’s entry into the main category at Cannes is a testament to the growing recognition of Indian cinema on a global platform. The candid conversation with Brut and her heartfelt Instagram post allowed fans and followers a glimpse into the emotional depths of her Cannes experience.
The story behind Chhaya’s saree resonates on multiple levels. It is a story of dreams unfulfilled, love, longing, and the indescribable bond between a mother and her daughter. It transforms a piece of clothing into a carrier of cherished memories and dreams. By choosing to wear her mother’s saree, Chhaya made a powerful statement about heritage, tradition, and the personal stories that we carry with us.
As Chhaya Kadam walked down the red carpet, she not only represented Indian cinema but also celebrated a piece of her personal history. Her sartorial choice stood as a poignant reminder that while our loved ones may no longer be with us, they continue to be a part of our journey. This beautiful gesture turned her debut at Cannes into a tribute that merged personal history with professional achievement, adding another layer of depth to her appearance at the prestigious event.
In conclusion, Chhaya Kadam’s heartfelt tribute to her mother at the Cannes Film Festival reflects a deeply personal and touching story that resonates far beyond the glitz and glamour of the red carpet. Through her actions, she brought an emotional and human element to the festival, highlighting the universal themes of love, loss, and the enduring impact of those who shape our lives.
