The 79th edition of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival 2026 is proving that Indian cinema is no longer just about Bollywood glamour. From Punjabi dramas to Malayalam storytelling and Gujarati cinema making waves internationally, regional Indian films are dominating conversations at Cannes this year. While India may not have a Palme d’Or contender in 2026, several powerful Indian projects are set to premiere, screen, and represent the country across multiple festival sections and the Marché du Film market. Explore 6 Indian films and creators making headlines at Cannes 2026.
1. Chardikala - Punjabi
Directed by Amarjit Singh Saron, the Punjabi film Chardikala (also known as Zakhma Toh Chardikala Tak) is among the most talked-about Indian entries this year.Featuring Ammy Virk and Roopi Gill, the film is set to premiere at the Marché du Film section of Cannes.
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2. Balan: The Boy - Malayalam
After the success of Manjummel Boys, filmmaker Chidambaram is heading to Cannes with Balan: The Boy. The emotional drama has already generated buzz for its heartfelt storytelling and international appeal.
The film is expected to screen at Cannes before its worldwide release later this year, further cementing Malayalam cinema’s growing reputation on the global festival circuit.
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3. September 21 - Hindi and Kannada
One of the more unique Indian entries this year is September 21, a Hindi-Kannada bilingual project that will be showcased at the Cannes film market.
Its selection highlights how Indian filmmakers are increasingly experimenting with multilingual narratives to connect with wider audiences internationally.
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4. Amma Ariyan - Malayalam
Indian cinema’s Cannes presence isn’t just about new films. Legendary Malayalam film Amma Ariyan is also being showcased as a restored classic at the festival.Have you watched this film?
5. Laalo: Krishna Sada Sahaayate - Gujarati
Gujarati cinema is also having a breakthrough moment at Cannes 2026 with Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate making its market premiere.
The makers described the film as a celebration of “culture, cinema, and faith,” and its Cannes selection marks another milestone for regional storytelling from western India.
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6. All We Imagine As Light - Malayalam
After winning global acclaim for All We Imagine As Light, filmmaker Payal Kapadia is returning to Cannes - this time as the head of the Critics’ Week jury.Have you watched this film?
