In an emotionally charged debut appearance at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, esteemed actress Chhaya Kadam revealed that her choice of attire held profound sentimental value. Wearing her late mother’s saree, Kadam expressed that this heartfelt gesture symbolized bringing her mother along to one of the most glamorous stages in global cinema.
Chhaya Kadam, known for her remarkable performances in critically acclaimed films such as ‘Laapata Ladies’ and ‘Madgaon Express,’ made waves at Cannes while attending for her Malayalam film ‘All We Imagine As Light.’ Directed by Payal Kapadia, this film has garnered significant attention as it marks a momentous occasion for Indian cinema, being the first Indian entry in the main category (Palme d’Or) at Cannes in three decades.
In an exclusive conversation with Brut, Kadam detailed the emotional journey behind her sartorial choice for her debut at Cannes. “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,’” shared Kadam, explicating the deep personal significance of her fashion statement at the celebrated film festival.
The actress also took to Instagram to share images of her resplendent look at the French Riviera, revealing the deeply personal narrative behind her choice of attire. In her heartfelt post, she wrote, “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.” This statement, penned in her mother tongue Marathi, resonated deeply with her followers and garnered widespread admiration for its poignant tribute.
The narrative of ‘All We Imagine As Light’ is equally compelling. The film weaves the story of Prabha, a nurse who is unsettled by an unexpected gift from her long-estranged husband.
. Simultaneously, the plot follows her younger roommate Anu, who is striving to find a quiet space to be with her lover. The story culminates with the two women embarking on a transformative road trip to a serene beach town, where they find the freedom to let their dreams and desires flourish.
Director Payal Kapadia, a graduate of the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, is no stranger to accolades. In 2021, Kapadia won the Golden Eye for Best Documentary for her work ‘The Night of Knowing Nothing.’ Her portfolio includes critically acclaimed films such as ‘Watermelon, Fish and Half Ghost,’ ‘The Last Mango Before the Monsoon,’ and ‘Afternoon Clouds.’
Kadam’s reverence for her mother’s memory through her Cannes debut serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between parent and child. Her choice of the traditional saree and Maharashtrian nath not only underscores her respect for her heritage but also highlights the cultural significance these elements exude on an international stage.
During her interaction with Brut, Kadam recounted the cherished memories associated with her mother’s saree. “This saree holds a lot of memories for me; it’s a piece of my heart. Every time I wear it, I feel connected to my mom in a way that’s indescribable,” she revealed. The portrayal of her mother through her attire was not merely a fashion choice but a heartfelt homage to a dearly missed matriarch, enriching her Cannes experience with an emotional depth.
The film ‘All We Imagine As Light’ has been creating substantial buzz, not just for its compelling storyline, but also for its historic significance in Indian cinema’s journey at Cannes. The film’s lead, Kadam, has been at the forefront, gaining accolades for her compelling portrayal in a narrative that explores intricate human emotions and relationships.
Kadam’s historic appearance and wardrobe choice have sparked conversations about the cultural richness and emotional connections that garments can carry. The story of her mother’s saree at Cannes transcends mere fashion, delving into the deeper realms of love, memory, and unfulfilled dreams. As Kadam walked the prestigious red carpet, she carried not just a piece of her mother’s wardrobe, but her mother’s legacy, sentiments, and unspoken dreams.
This heartfelt gesture has indeed added a layer of unique personal history to her Cannes debut, making it an unforgettable event both for Kadam and for those who follow her inspiring journey in the world of cinema.
