Chhaya Kadam, an acclaimed actress known for her noteworthy roles in films such as ‘Laapata Ladies’ and ‘Madgaon Express,’ recently graced the red carpet at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. She attended the prestigious event for her Malayalam movie ‘All We Imagine As Light.’ This film, directed by Payal Kapadia, has garnered significant attention as it signifies the first Indian entry in the main category (Palme d’Or) at Cannes in three decades.
In a heartfelt gesture, Chhaya Kadam wore her late mother’s saree to the film festival, symbolizing a deep and emotional connection. Speaking to Brut, Kadam shared, “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.'” This poignant decision showcased not just her debut outfit but also her way of keeping her mother’s memory alive as she stepped onto the global stage.
Chhaya Kadam took to Instagram to post pictures of her ensemble at the French Riviera, revealing her profound sentiments in the caption. She wrote in Marathi, “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.” Her words touched the hearts of many, reflecting the deep bond she shared with her mother.
Chhaya’s choice of attire not only stood out for its emotional significance but also for its cultural representation. The saree, a traditional Maharashtrian drape, and the nath (nose ring) are quintessential elements of her heritage. By choosing to wear them, she embraced her roots on an international platform, making a powerful statement of identity and homage.
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‘All We Imagine As Light’ tells the story of Prabha, a nurse who finds herself in a disquieting situation after receiving an unexpected gift from her long-estranged husband. Concurrently, her younger friend and roommate, Anu, is on a quest for solitude to be with her lover. Their journey leads them on a road trip to a beach town, where they explore their dreams and desires.
Directed by Payal Kapadia, the film has drawn considerable acclaim. Kapadia, an alumna of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, previously won the Golden Eye for Best Documentary for ‘The Night of Knowing Nothing’ in 2021. Her portfolio also includes other notable works such as ‘Watermelon, Fish and Half Ghost’, ‘The Last Mango Before the Monsoon’, and ‘Afternoon Clouds’.
The presence of an Indian film in the Palme d’Or category after 30 years is indeed a monumental achievement. This milestone underscores the evolving landscape of Indian cinema and its increasing recognition on global platforms. For Chhaya Kadam, this moment was not just a professional high point but also a deeply personal one, as she carried her mother’s spirit along with her to one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world.
Recollecting her thoughts, Kadam expressed, “I always dreamt of taking my mother with me on flights, to be able to show her the world the way I see it. Wearing her saree in Cannes, I felt she was there, watching over me, sharing this incredible moment. It was an experience that words can’t fully capture.”
Her candidness about her mother and the emotional weight of her attire resonated with many, bringing a human element to the glitz and glamour typically associated with Cannes. Her attire became more than just a fashion statement; it became a symbol of love, remembrance, and cultural pride.
Chhaya Kadam’s journey to Cannes and her heartfelt tribute to her mother will be remembered as one of the festival’s most touching moments. It reminded everyone of the powerful stories hidden behind the glamorous façade of the film industry and how cinema can bridge gaps between the past and present, personal and professional, local and global.
As Chhaya Kadam continues to captivate audiences with her performances, her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival in her mother’s saree will undoubtedly remain a significant and poignant chapter in her career. It is a testament to the enduring influence of familial bonds and cultural heritage, even amidst the hustle and bustle of international acclaim.
