Bollywood star Alia Bhatt, who made waves with her stunning appearance at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, recently opened up about one of her earliest inspirations when it comes to walking the prestigious red carpet — none other than global icon and former Miss World, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. In a heartfelt statement that quickly went viral among fans and film enthusiasts alike, Alia credited Aishwarya for shaping her childhood dreams and influencing her journey into the world of glamour and international recognition.
Speaking to the press during her appearance at Cannes, Alia Bhatt was asked about her experience at the festival and what it meant to her personally. Without hesitation, she took a moment to reflect on her admiration for Aishwarya Rai, who has long been considered a Cannes veteran, having represented India on the global stage for over two decades.
“I’ve grown up watching Aishwarya Rai walk the red carpet at Cannes,” Alia shared with a warm smile. “For me, as a young girl who was just beginning to dream of becoming an actress, seeing her there — so poised, so elegant, and so confidently representing India — was incredibly powerful. It wasn’t just about the fashion or the glamour; it was about how she carried herself with such dignity and grace. That left a lasting impact on me.”
Alia, who made her Cannes debut a few years ago, emphasized how surreal it felt to now be part of the same global platform where she once admired her idol from afar. “To now be here, walking the same red carpet, standing on the same steps, and having my own little journey unfold — it feels like a full-circle moment,” she said. “Aishwarya paved the way for so many of us. She showed the world that Indian actresses could not only belong on the international stage but shine brilliantly on it.”
While Aishwarya Rai has consistently stunned audiences at Cannes with her dramatic fashion choices and statuesque presence, Alia’s own approach to the festival has blended contemporary elegance with a youthful edge — proving that the new generation of Bollywood stars is carrying the legacy forward while adding their own distinctive flair.
Alia’s acknowledgment was met with widespread appreciation online, with fans of both actresses praising the moment as a beautiful example of women supporting women in the industry. Many also applauded Alia for openly recognizing the contributions of her predecessors, especially in an industry where competition often overshadows camaraderie.
“Aishwarya will always be a legend,” Alia added during her interview. “But beyond her beauty and talent, what really inspired me was her confidence. She made it look effortless, but I know how much grace and strength it takes to represent not just yourself but your country on a stage like Cannes. I’m grateful she laid that path for people like me to follow.”
With this touching tribute, Alia Bhatt not only celebrated a milestone in her own career but also highlighted the lasting legacy of Aishwarya Rai — a true trailblazer whose influence continues to shape the aspirations of the next generation of Indian artists on the world stage.
