Cannes Film Festival 2026 is once again celebrating Indian cinema with a strong and diverse selection of films from across the country. From restored classics and emotional dramas to documentaries and short films, Indian storytellers are making a major impact at the prestigious global festival. This year’s line-up highlights fresh talent, regional cinema, and unique narratives that are helping Indian films reach audiences far beyond national borders.
1. Lakadbaggha 2: The Monkey Business
Lakadbaggha 2: The Monkey Business, directed by and starring Anshuman Jha, will be showcased at the Cannes market section before its official premiere later this year. The action thriller continues the journey of the animal-loving vigilante from the first film. Its Cannes screening is expected to introduce the sequel to international buyers and global cinema audiences.
2. Shadows of the Moonless Night
FTII student Mehar Malhotra’s Punjabi short film Shadows of the Moonless Night has been selected for La Cinef, a Cannes category dedicated to emerging filmmakers. The 24-minute short tells the story of a factory worker struggling with emotional pressure and loneliness. The selection marks an important achievement for young Indian filmmaking talent on an international platform.
3. Gudgudi
Gudgudi, directed by Manisha K Makwana, will have its world premiere at Cannes in the Marché du Film section. Produced by Mukesh Chhabra, the short film stars Ahsaas Channa. The story reportedly focuses on a middle-class woman dealing with emotional challenges while working around an amusement park setting.
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4. Amma Ariyan
Legendary filmmaker John Abraham’s Malayalam classic Amma Ariyan has been restored in 4K and selected for Cannes Classics. The film is considered one of the most influential works in India’s parallel cinema movement. Its restoration and Cannes screening will introduce the iconic movie to a new generation of international viewers and cinema lovers.
5. Spirit Of The Wildflower
Directed by London-based filmmaker Shrimoyee Chakraborty, Spirit Of The Wildflower follows two sisters managing India’s first legal mahua distillery. The documentary explores themes of identity, ambition, family expectations, and women’s independence. Through a personal and emotional journey, the film presents a unique story rooted in culture while addressing broader social realities faced by modern women.
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6. September 21
Karen Kshiti Suvarna’s debut feature, September 21, will premiere at Cannes on May 16. Shot in Hindi and Kannada, the story follows an elderly Alzheimer’s patient during the COVID-19 pandemic. As his condition worsens, his estranged son returns home, leading to an emotional exploration of caregiving, memory loss, family responsibility, and emotional exhaustion within households.
7. Chardikala
Punjabi film Chardikala, directed by Amarjit Singh Saron, stars Ammy Virk and Roopi Gill in lead roles. The story revolves around a dedicated nurse who gets wrongly accused in a serious incident. The film is set to premiere at Cannes before arriving in theatres later for audiences.