Cannes 2025 EXCLUSIVE: Nandinee Khosla On Her Film's Cannes Screening, 'Enriching' Red Carpet Debut & More

Cannes 2025 Nandinee Khosla Exclusive: It's a dream-come-true moment for Nandinee Khosla. The Mumbai-based actress-theatre play writer added another feather to her cap as her debut film 'The Second Wind' recently had its grand screening at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Not only that, the young actress also walked the highly-esteemed Cannes red carpet, celebrating a major milestone in her artistic career.

Helmed by Indira Baikerekar, Nandinee Khosla's debut film 'The Second Wind' is all about getting a 'second chance' in life. The film follows the story of four resilient women who never gave up hope and found a 'second' chance in life through resilience.

After her dazzling red carpet debut at Cannes 2025, donning a stunning black strapless corset gown from the shelves of the popular designer duo Shantanu & Nikhil, Nandinee took us through her 'enriching' Cannes debut and talked about her 'pinch me' moment in the French Riviera.

Here are the excerpts from the interview:

1) Many artists dream of Cannes as a distant aspiration. What did it feel like to transition from watching the festival from afar to experiencing it firsthand?

Attending this festival is a truly remarkable experience. The experience of being in the presence of so many accomplished actors and filmmakers is quite surreal. At this moment, I am focused on absorbing the insights and perspectives shared by the versatile and incredible actors I have the privilege of meeting.

2) How involved were you in curating your look for this special occasion?

I believe that personal involvement is essential in curating one's appearance, as one ultimately embodies and carries the chosen aesthetic. Consequently, I have been actively engaged in research and collaboration with my stylist, finding the process to be very engaging and enjoyable. I intend to bring an authentic personal touch, into any look that we curate for me to present!

3) What was your "pinch-me" moment since arriving at Cannes?

I am positive that the very moment when I walked the majestic red carpet qualifies as a 'pinch-me' moment. I remember watching red carpets on television as a little girl. To be actually walking it, at one of the world's most renowned film festivals as a debut actress undeniably felt like a dream!

4) What has surprised you most about the Cannes experience so far?

I realized that it is commonly assumed that the Cannes Film Festival is majorly only attended by established celebrities. I was pleasantly surprised to discover the significant presence of art and film students, as well as budding filmmakers from across the globe. Cannes is a platform offering space for a really diverse gathering, creating an environment for networking and mutual exchanges of insights. I found the experience of engaging with everyone thoroughly enriching.

5) Who were you most excited to meet or have already met at the festival? Any film screening that you are looking forward to attending?

I encountered Mr Makrand Deshpande at the Bharat Pavilion. It was an incredibly memorable memory for me given my deep appreciation for theater. Furthermore, I am greatly looking forward to the rerun of Satyajit Ray's cinematic masterpiece, Aranyer Din Ratri. The opportunity to view such an iconic Indian film here in France is truly unique!

6) Stepping onto the red carpet is a moment of immense pride. Was there a particular memory or interaction during this experience that stands out to you?

It is indeed true. When I ascended the stairs to the carpet, turned around, and greeted everyone with a namaste, I was overwhelmed with the feeling of pride. As an actress, representing representing an Indian film on an international platform, I felt really proud.

7) Do you believe your participation in Cannes will influence the types of roles and projects you pursue in the future?

That's always the hope and dream. I most definitely believe that if something great is to come out of my presence here, it will find its way to me. While I am here, I'm ensuring that I make the most of this valuable experience for what it is.