Chhaya Kadam, the talented actress known for her gripping roles in films like ‘Laapata Ladies’ and ‘Madgaon Express,’ recently made her debut at the prestigious 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Attending for her Malayalam film ‘All We Imagine As Light,’ directed by the celebrated Payal Kapadia, Kadam’s red carpet appearance was more than just a professional milestone—it was a poignant tribute to her late mother.
‘All We Imagine As Light’ has already generated significant buzz, not only because of its compelling narrative but also due to its historic significance. The film marks the first Indian entry in the main category, the Palme d’Or, at Cannes in three decades. This dual moment of professional and personal celebration was beautifully underscored by Kadam’s choice of attire: a saree that belonged to her late mother.
In an emotional conversation with Brut, Kadam explained the deep personal significance of her outfit. “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’,” she revealed. For Kadam, donning her mother’s saree was a symbolic way to bring her presence to one of the most significant events in her career.
Taking to Instagram, Kadam shared her Cannes look with her followers, capturing the hearts of many. In her poignant caption, she disclosed her long-held dream of taking her mother on a flight—a dream that remained unfulfilled while her mother was alive. 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.”
The saree, paired with a traditional Maharashtrian nath (nose ring), was not just a fashion statement but a deeply rooted cultural and emotional expression.
. It was an homage to her heritage and a manifestation of her enduring bond with her mother.
In addition to her sartorial tribute, Kadam’s film ‘All We Imagine As Light’ is creating waves for its unique storyline and stellar direction. The film centers around Prabha, a nurse who receives an unsettling gift from her estranged husband. Simultaneously, her younger friend and roommate, Anu, is on a quest for a quiet place to be with her lover. The narrative takes the two women on a transformative road trip to a beach town, where they find the freedom to explore their dreams and desires.
The director, Payal Kapadia, is a name already familiar to cinephiles. In 2021, she won the Golden Eye for Best Documentary for ‘The Night of Knowing Nothing,’ solidifying her reputation as a formidable force in the world of filmmaking. A graduate of the esteemed Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, Kapadia’s previous works include ‘Watermelon, Fish and Half Ghost,’ ‘The Last Mango Before the Monsoon,’ and ‘Afternoon Clouds.’
Kapadia’s distinctive vision and storytelling prowess have made ‘All We Imagine As Light’ a standout entry at Cannes, further amplified by Kadam’s heartfelt gesture. The film’s exploration of complex female relationships and emotional landscapes has garnered critical acclaim, adding another layer of depth to Kadam’s Cannes experience.
The 2024 Cannes Film Festival will be remembered not just for its cinematic offerings but also for the deeply personal stories that were intertwined with the glamour and glitz. Chhaya Kadam’s emotional tribute to her mother stood out as a touching reminder of the personal histories that shape and influence artistic expression.
As Kadam walked the red carpet in her late mother’s saree, she embodied a blend of tradition, personal loss, and professional achievement. Her presence at Cannes, adorned in an outfit filled with emotional resonance, highlighted the interconnectedness of personal memories and professional milestones. Indeed, in her own words and actions, Chhaya Kadam brought her mother along to the Cannes Film Festival, making it a moment that transcended the event’s usual opulence and glamour.
In conclusion, Kadam’s presence at Cannes wasn’t just a debut—it was a celebration of life, love, and legacy. As her film continues to garner attention, her heartfelt act of wearing her mother’s saree has carved a special place in the hearts of many, making her Cannes appearance unforgettable for more reasons than one.
