Cannes 2025: Payal Kapadia’s Beautiful Gesture Made All We Imagine As Light Cast Shine; Chhaya Kadam Remembers Her Debut at the Prestigious Event
Actress Chhaya Kadam, who has worked hard for years in Hindi and Marathi films, got her big international moment not through a big-budget Bollywood film, but through a small, powerful drama called All We Imagine As Light, directed by Payal Kapadia.
In a recent chat with Sucharita Tyagi, Chhaya looked back on her emotional and proud debut at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024. This year, she’s back at Cannes for a Marathi film, though she won’t be walking the red carpet. Still, the memories of last year’s big moment remain close to her heart.
A Moment to Remember at Cannes 2024
Chhaya shared a touching memory about director Payal Kapadia’s thoughtful gesture. When their film All We Imagine As Light won the Grand Prix (second highest honor) at Cannes last year, Payal could have gone up on stage alone to collect the award. But instead, she chose to bring her actors with her.
“She held our hands and took all three of us up there,” Chhaya said, recalling how emotional that moment was. “Even today, when I look at that photo or video, I feel like we gave hope to women all over the world — and especially to women in our industry who are chasing their dreams.”
Four Women in Sarees Representing India
Chhaya described that powerful moment — four women in sarees, standing proudly on stage, representing India. “That day, I will never forget,” she said with pride.
The Madgaon Express actress reflected on how she has worked in the industry for many years, but it was that moment at Cannes that made the world notice her in a new, positive way. “Payal, I love you,” she said with heartfelt gratitude.
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