Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and her daughter Aaradhya turned heads at the Mumbai airport early Tuesday morning as they departed for the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, twinning in stunning black custom outfits.
The annual pilgrimage to the French Riviera has become a cherished tradition for the mother-daughter duo, and this year’s departure was no exception.
What they wore
Aishwarya opted for a sleek black pantsuit, while Aaradhya complemented her mother in a coordinated black ensemble. The duo accessorized with stylish sunglasses, exuding elegance and sophistication.
The actor was also seen managing their luggage herself, breaking protocol and drawing attention for her down-to-earth demeanor.
An annual tradition
Aishwarya has been a regular at the Cannes Film Festival for over two decades, first attending in 2002. She represents L’Oréal Paris, one of the festival’s longtime sponsors, walking the red carpet each year.
Aaradhya has accompanied her mother to Cannes for several years now, making their joint appearances a highlight for paparazzi and fans alike.
What to expect at Cannes 2026
The 2026 Cannes Film Festival runs from May 12 to May 23. Aishwarya is expected to walk the red carpet for the premiere of several highly anticipated films, though her exact schedule has not been announced.
Previous years have seen her in showstopping gowns from designers like Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Dolce & Gabbana, and Michael Cinco. Fashion watchers are eagerly awaiting this year’s sartorial choices.
Aishwarya may also participate in panels and events related to L’Oréal Paris’s women empowerment initiatives, a cause she has championed for years.
Family support
Before leaving, Aishwarya was seen interacting with the paparazzi. She was also accompanied by her mother, Brinda Rai, who came to see them off at the airport.
Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya’s husband, was noticeably absent from the airport departure, though he has supported her Cannes appearances in previous years. The couple’s daughter Aaradhya remains Aishwarya’s constant companion on these trips.
Social media buzz
Videos of the departure quickly went viral on social media. Fans praised Aishwarya for managing her own luggage and appreciated the coordinated mother-daughter look.
One user wrote: “Aishwarya and Aaradhya twinning in black is everything. Queen behavior.” Another commented: “Love how Aaradhya is growing up to be such a graceful young lady. Just like her mother.”
Some fans also expressed surprise at Abhishek’s absence, though others noted that he may join them later in Cannes.
Aishwarya’s Cannes legacy
Aishwarya’s Cannes journey has been remarkable. From her first appearance in 2002 wearing a Neeta Lulla saree to her iconic 2018 comeback after Aaradhya’s birth, she has consistently been one of the most photographed celebrities at the festival.
Her 2023 appearance in a dramatic golden gown with a 23-foot train broke the internet. Last year, she wore a custom pastel blue embroidered ensemble by Gaurav Gupta.
This year, with her black departure look already creating buzz, expectations are high for what she will wear on the red carpet.
The road ahead
The 2026 Cannes Film Festival promises to be a star-studded affair, with several Hollywood and international celebrities expected to attend. Aishwarya’s presence continues to draw Indian audiences to the festival coverage.
For now, the actor is en route to the French Riviera with her daughter, ready to create more memories on and off the red carpet.
