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Alia Bhatt had a Disney princess moment on the Cannes Film Festival 2026 red carpet on May 12. The Bollywood star, who later changed to a pastel-peach
dress for her second appearance at the French Riviera for the opening night, however, seemingly got ignored by international paparazzi, at least that's what netizens are claiming, seeing her viral videos. Soon after Alia arrived to wave at the shutterbugs, social media started the chatter claiming she did not receive the weightage other global celebs were getting for the cameras. While it divided the internet, her fan clubs were left fuming at the alleged treatment. Many even posted their reactions online.
Alia Bhatt's viral video
Alia walked the Cannes 2026 red carpet on May 12 as a brand ambassador of a global cosmetics company. While her elegant, Disney-like appearance stood out, attention eventually shifted to a viral clip that sparked debate. Many claimed the photographers did not pay much heed to her when she struck a pose.
Fans noted how, despite stepping on the red carpet with confidence, blowing flying kisses, and keeping her signature smile intact, her presence could not garner enough attention even as she patiently waited for the flashes to turn to her. Netizens also said the photographers were rather focused on other celebrities walking past Alia.
Netizens react to Alia getting 'ignored'
A user reacted to the viral video on Instagram. They posted, "Baat toh sahi hai.. Koi photo hi nahi le raha.. She is also looking awkward. Anyways, the smile she carried throughout is showing she is strong." Another one claimed, "they are busy photographing someone else!"
One fan lauded Alia's professionalism. "She handled it gracefully. it's easy to say ppl ..step into her shoes and you'll know how hard it is to walk through all that!!"
Fans root for Aishwarya Rai, and other actresses
Some users were quick to opine that had it been Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, things would've been different as global media recognises her. But the same brand excluded her from being invited this year. A netizen reacted, "Cannes just doesn’t feel the same without Aishwarya Rai. She brought grace, glamour, and emotions that turned every appearance into a moment. Her absence leaves a silence no spotlight can fill." A second one said, "Cannes wouldn't cannes without #ashwaryarai. Had it been her, it would've been different."
Some even rooted for Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who were also absent from Cannes this year. "She's not even closer to being Superstar.. she's a good actress no doubt.. but clearly not a Superstar.. Superstars are Deepika Aishwaria and Priyanka.. i still remember that Cannes video of Deepika where photographers are shouting "over the shoulder please" this is what we call aura and presence which is clearly missing this year with Alia bhatt," a post read.
Alia was later seen posing with Hollywood stars like Heidi Klum, Jane Fonda and others. Spanish racing driver Carlos Sainz Jr was also spotted in the same frame.
DISCLAIMER: The article is a compilation of thoughts posted by netizens and satire doing the rounds on the subject. Ideas expressed do not reflect the view of Times Network.
