The 77th Cannes Film Festival witnessed a unique celebration of Indian cinema and culture with the inaugural “Bharat Parva” event. Organized by India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the evening showcased the country’s rich heritage through performances, cuisine, and handicrafts.
Secretary Sanjay Jaju of the Ministry hosted the event, which drew a large audience of Cannes delegates. The program included captivating performances by singer Sunanda Sharma and rising talents Pragati, Arjun, and Shaan’s son Maahi. The highlight was a rendition of “Maa Tujhe Salaam,” the Indian national anthem, sung by all the performers, receiving a thunderous applause from the attendees.
The evening wasn’t just about entertainment. “Bharat Parva” also served as a platform to promote upcoming Indian film events. Posters for the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and the inaugural World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) were unveiled by Mr. Jaju alongside prominent Indian filmmakers Ashok Amritraj and Richie Mehta.
Chef Varun Totlani curated a special menu for the event, offering a delectable taste of Indian fusion cuisine. The event’s allure was further enhanced by the presence of renowned actress Shobhita Dhulipala, Assamese film star Amie Barauah, and film critic Anupama Chopra. Their participation highlighted the diverse tapestry of Indian cinema and its growing influence on the global stage.
“Bharat Parva” proved to be a memorable evening, celebrating the convergence of film, culture, and artistic collaboration. The event served as a powerful display of India’s soft power on the international stage.
