Cannes 2026: As the 2026 Cannes Film Festival continues to dominate many film lovers are sharing that they deeply miss the presence of Deepika Padukone. Known as the unofficial Cannes Queen of India, her absence is highly noticeable this year. Fans are currently looking back at her historic appearance in May 2022, when she served as an esteemed member of the main competition jury.
Throwback To Deepika Padukone's Cannes 2022
Deepika Padukone’s inclusion in the 75th Cannes Film Festival jury was a monumental moment. She was the first Indian artist in nearly a decade to be chosen for the main Competition panel since 2013. This role placed her in a highly respected position, trusted to help decide the winners of the festival's top awards, including the prestigious Palme d'Or.
The Padmaavat actress shared the distinguished panel with globally acclaimed filmmakers and actors, including Asghar Farhadi, Rebecca Hall, Noomi Rapace, and Vincent Lindon.
Reflecting on how far she had come from her debut in Bollywood, Deepika Padukone shared an emotional and powerful statement at the time, “15 years ago, when I came to this industry, I don’t think anyone had faith in me, or my talent. So, 15 years later, to be a part of the jury and to be experiencing some of the best cinema in the world has been an incredible journey and I am truly grateful for that”.
During the inauguration of the India Pavilion at the festival, Deepika Padukone spoke passionately about the future of Indian cinema on the global stage. She urged the Indian film fraternity to have more confidence in their stories, stating, “I feel as a nation, we have it. We have the talent, we have the ability and I think, we just need that sort of conviction”.
The Ram Leela actress then made a bold prediction that delighted her fans back home, concluding, “I truly believe there will come a day when India won’t have to be at Cannes, and Cannes (film festival) will be in India.”
Deepika Padukone At 75th Cannes Film Festival In 2022
Beyond her official judging duties, Deepika Padukon dominated global fashion headlines in 2022. On her very first day, she turned heads in a boho-inspired Sabyasachi ensemble, featuring a printed shirt and green trousers. Throughout the festival, she continuously celebrated Indian craftsmanship by choosing striking, custom-made sarees for the traditional red carpet walks.
Today, Deepika remains a massive global ambassador for luxury fashion houses and international brands. While she is currently away from the French Riviera preparing to welcome her second baby with Ranveer Singh.