'devdas' cannes throwback: when aishwarya and shah rukh lit up the red carpet - the statesman

DEVDAS AT CANNES: As the glitter and glamour of Cannes take over our timelines once again, fans are diving into nostalgia — and one memory that stands out even after 23 years is the grand

debut of ‘Devdas’ at the festival in 2002. It wasn’t just a movie premiere, it was a moment that brought Bollywood flair, elegance, and storytelling to the international spotlight in a way

few had seen before. Advertisement Aishwarya Rai, Shah Rukh Khan, and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali walked the red carpet that year, leaving an impression that still lingers. Advertisement

A series of throwback photos have reemerged online, showing a radiant Aishwarya draped in a sunshine-yellow saree, her look equal parts traditional and iconic. Beside her, Shah Rukh oozed

classic charm in a sharp tuxedo. Together, they didn’t just represent a film — they represented an entire era of Indian cinema. > Actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan makes an appearance at 

#Cannes2025, > embracing a classic white handloom in a handwoven kadwa ivory > handloom Banarasi saree with a handwoven tissue drape and imperial > heirloom of rubies from 

#ManishMalhotra High > Jewellery.#AishwaryaRaiBachchan… pic.twitter.com/LBfrwzP0BB >  > — The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) May 21, 2025 ‘Devdas’ itself was no ordinary film.

Bhansali’s lavish 2002 adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s timeless tale was a feast for the eyes and the heart. With opulent sets, unforgettable music, and emotional storytelling,

it stood out as a cinematic spectacle. ALSO READ: AISHWARYA RAI RULES THE RED CARPET AT CANNES 2025: FANS SAY, “QUEEN OF CANNES RETURNS!” Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of the heartbroken,

self-destructive Devdas struck a deep chord, while Aishwarya’s Paro was a vision of grace and unspoken longing. And of course, who could forget Madhuri Dixit’s soul-stirring performance as

Chandramukhi, the courtesan with a heart full of love? Though ‘Devdas’ wasn’t India’s first brush with Cannes, it certainly was among the most celebrated. The 1955 black-and-white classic by

Bimal Roy had already set the benchmark, but Bhansali’s version brought color, grandeur, and a new audience to the tale. That red carpet moment in 2002 marked more than just a film

screening. It was a cultural crossover. It was Indian cinema telling the world, “We’re here — and we’re spectacular.” Advertisement