Simi Garewal to Make Grand Cannes Debut in 2025, Honouring Restored Satyajit Ray Classic

Mumbai: Veteran actress and television icon Simi Garewal is set to make her dazzling debut at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, walking the red carpet on May 19 in honour of the restored version of Satyajit Ray’s 1970 cinematic gem Aranyer Din Ratri. The film, in which Garewal played a key role, has been meticulously restored by filmmakers Wes Anderson and Martin Scorsese in collaboration with the Heritage Foundation.

The announcement has stirred excitement across social media platforms, as fans eagerly await the return of the "Lady in White" to the global spotlight. The Cannes Film Festival, which opened on May 13, will feature the restored film in a special segment, celebrating its cultural legacy and Garewal’s iconic contribution to Indian cinema.

Taking to Instagram on May 12, Garewal shared a video revealing her preparations for the red carpet. “So I’ve finally decided as to who will design my ensemble for the red carpet in Cannes!! It’s on 19th May, when we present my film with Ray, Aranyer Din Ratri, restored by Wes Anderson, Martin Scorsese and Heritage Foundation. Because I love their aesthetics... I’ve chosen @karleofashion,” she wrote.

Garewal will be wearing a custom creation by Indian couture label Karleo, known for its refined craftsmanship and bespoke eveningwear. The brand, expressing their excitement, commented: “Thank you for the honour. We can’t wait to see you in this unforgettable moment.”

Social media was abuzz following the announcement. Popular fashion commentary page Diet Sabya declared, “THE Simi G making her Cannes debut? Oh, it’s over for everyone.” The sentiment was echoed by countless fans, with comments ranging from “Forever icon!” to “Simi ji, you are extremely fabulous yourself, so whatever you wear, you will make the attire look very elegant.”

Simi Garewal has been a style and screen icon since the 1960s, best known for her grace, poise, and trademark white wardrobe. Her memorable performances in classics such as Do Badan (1966), Mera Naam Joker (1970), and Padatik (1973), along with her acclaimed talk shows Rendezvous with Simi Garewal and Simi Selects India’s Most Desirable, have left an indelible mark on Indian pop culture.

Her return to the limelight through the world’s most glamorous film festival, paired with a tribute to a cinematic masterpiece, marks a fitting homage to her enduring legacy.

As anticipation builds for her red carpet appearance, fans and film enthusiasts alike look forward to seeing Simi Garewal once again take centre stage — this time on the global platform of Cannes.