Old is gold! Sharmila Tagore and Simi Garewal redefine classic red carpet glamour at Cannes 2025

The 2025 Cannes Film Festival witnessed a radiant moment of elegance, legacy, and old-world glamour as veteran icons Sharmila Tagore and Simi Garewal reunited for the red-carpet premiere of the newly restored 4K version of Aranyer Din Ratri (1970), directed by the legendary Satyajit Ray. Introduced by none other than Wes Anderson, a long-time Ray devotee, the screening felt less like a film event and more like a celebration of timeless style and cultural heritage.

At 79, Sharmila Tagore turned heads in a rich emerald green silk sari with a traditional gold zari border, a sartorial choice that paid homage to her Bengali roots while exuding unmistakable old-money elegance. She paired her look with a minimal gold clutch, delicate green drop earrings, and soft waves styled in a half-up, half-down 'do that framed her face with youthful charm. There was no need for overstatement, her serene confidence and timeless grace did all the talking.

Making her Cannes red carpet debut at 77, Simi Garewal proved once again that white is her power colour. She arrived in a floor-length embroidered coat layered over a sleek matching gown, her silver-streaked hair left flowing to add softness to her high-impact ensemble. A bold statement necklace completed the monochrome look, balancing restraint with theatrical flair - quintessential Simi.

Their reunion was more than just a red carpet appearance, it was a moment that transcended fashion and film. Vogue India’s image of the duo went viral instantly, sparking an avalanche of nostalgic praise. “An iconic tribute to Indian cinema’s golden era,” fans proclaimed, as younger audiences discovered the enduring glamour of two women who have never needed a trend to stay relevant.

The celebration didn’t end there. The elegant matriarchal energy continued with Sharmila’s photos alongside daughter Saba Pataudi, snapped in the soft light of the French Riviera. “Cannes 2025! Ma n Me… moments to cherish,” wrote Saba on Instagram, offering a glimpse into the intergenerational bond and beauty that defines the Tagore lineage.

Speaking to ETimes, Sharmila reflected on the rich legacy of Indian cinema at Cannes - from Chetan Anand’s Neecha Nagar winning the Grand Prix in 1946 to her own film Devi competing for the Palme d’Or in 1962. “Indian representation has always been there,” she said. “Cannes gives our films a global platform.”

She also applauded the new wave, praising Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light, which took home the Grand Prix last year. It was a reminder that while fashion and faces may evolve, Indian cinema’s soul and its women,, continue to inspire on the world stage.


At a festival often dominated by fleeting trends, it was the understated glamour, enduring style, and cultural depth of Sharmila Tagore and Simi Garewal that stole the spotlight and reminded the world that fashion, at its best, tells a story of grace, wisdom, and heritage.


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