India’s Boman Irani honored “beyond words” to be at Cannes

Veteran actor achieves career highpoint with heartfelt film

Veteran award-winning actor Boman Irani has said that he is honored “beyond words” to attend the Cannes Film Festival 2025. He is there to help promote the movie “Tanvi the Great” directed by Anupam Kher, which is screening at the Cannes Film Market – where the deals are made to get films financed and later distributed worldwide. The film is not, however, in the official selection.

Representing Indian cinema on the global stage, the acclaimed actor expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity. Irani is gearing up for his first-ever appearance at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. The film’s selection for Cannes marks a significant achievement in Boman Irani’s celebrated career, which spans more than 20 years.

"One of the most fulfilling roles of my career"

Speaking about his Cannes debut, Boman Irani stated, “Playing Raza Saab, a musical legend, has been one of the most fulfilling roles of my career. Collaborating with Anupam Kher—an artist I have immense respect and admiration for—made the experience even more special. I hope this film resonates with audiences worldwide, just as it moved me while portraying this deeply nuanced character.”

The regular presence of Indian stars such as Deepika Padukone, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Sonam Kapoor at Cannes is seen as a testament to India’s growing influence in cinema and fashion, even if some feel that the accent is often put more on the glamorous side of Indian cinema rather than the artistry.

(Michael Leahy, Source: IANS et al. Photo : picture alliance / NurPhoto | David Talukdar)