Indian actress Ruchi Gujjar made headlines at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival by wearing a necklace featuring the likeness of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in what she described as a tribute to India’s global rise and cultural identity.
Indian actress and model Ruchi Gujjar drew widespread attention on the red carpet at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival after wearing a necklace bearing the face of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The accessory, designed with traditional motifs from the western Indian state of Rajasthan, was worn as part of her debut appearance at the renowned international event.
Gujjar, an emerging figure in Indian cinema, attended the festival’s Chopard “Caroline’s Universe” Dinner dressed in a gold lehenga, a traditional Indian outfit, paired with a Bandhani dupatta and an ornate necklace. The statement piece, which featured small pendants bearing Prime Minister Modi’s likeness, was intended, according to Gujjar, as a gesture of admiration for the Indian leader and his impact on the country’s international image.
“This isn’t just jewellery—it’s a symbol of strength, vision, and India’s rising stature on the global stage,” Gujjar told News18. “By wearing it at Cannes, I wanted to honour our Prime Minister, whose leadership has taken India to new heights.”
The necklace, crafted with heritage-inspired detailing and rooted in Rajasthani artistry, blended cultural tradition with contemporary symbolism. It quickly attracted significant attention online and in international media, with images circulating widely across social platforms.
Complementing the necklace was a gold lehenga designed by Roopa Sharmaa, embellished with mirror work and traditional Gota Patti embroidery. The ensemble paid homage to the royal textile traditions of Jaipur, a city known for its intricate garment designs and historical influence on Indian fashion.
Adding to the cultural resonance of her appearance was a Bandhani dupatta—an intricately tie-dyed scarf—designed by Ram of the fashion label Zaribari. The piece featured Zardozi and Gota Patti work, both traditional forms of hand embroidery associated with Indian royalty and ceremonial attire.
“It felt like wearing the soul of Rajasthan,” Gujjar remarked, reflecting on the emotional connection to her native region.
The Cannes Film Festival, held annually in the French Riviera, is one of the most prestigious events in the global film calendar. It serves not only as a showcase for cinematic achievements but also as a prominent stage for fashion and cultural expression.
Gujjar’s choice to wear a necklace bearing the likeness of a political leader is highly unusual for the event, where fashion statements tend to focus on aesthetics rather than explicit tributes. Her decision, however, aligns with a broader trend among Indian celebrities using international platforms to project cultural pride and national identity.
Narendra Modi, who has served as India’s prime minister since 2014, has positioned himself as a key figure in shaping India’s global standing. His administration has emphasised economic development, digital infrastructure, and nationalistic messaging, which some supporters view as a reassertion of Indian pride on the world stage.
By referencing Modi in such a high-profile setting, Gujjar’s gesture adds a new layer to the intersection of politics, fashion, and cultural diplomacy.
While the necklace has sparked debate across different audiences, it has also highlighted how personal expression at global events can carry political, cultural, and symbolic meanings.
As India’s presence in international cinema and fashion continues to grow, moments like Gujjar’s Cannes debut reflect the evolving narrative of national representation in global forums.