Actress Smriti Khanna has weighed in on the ongoing debate comparing Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Alia Bhatt's presence at the Cannes Film Festival. In an exclusive interview, Khanna stated that it is Aishwarya who made Cannes a household name in India.
Smriti Khanna's Take on the Cannes Debate
Speaking to India TV, Smriti Khanna said, "We know of Cannes because of Aishwarya Rai. She has been representing India at the festival for years and has set a benchmark." Khanna emphasized that while Alia Bhatt is a talented actress, Aishwarya's legacy at Cannes is unparalleled.
Aishwarya's Longstanding Association with Cannes
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been a regular at the Cannes Film Festival since 2002, serving as a brand ambassador for L'Oreal Paris. Her iconic appearances have often made headlines, earning her the title of "Queen of Cannes" in Indian media.
Alia Bhatt's Recent Cannes Debut
Alia Bhatt made her Cannes debut in 2022 and has since attended the festival, representing Indian cinema. While she has received praise for her fashion choices, Khanna believes that Aishwarya's contribution to putting Cannes on the Indian map is unmatched.
Khanna added, "Both are wonderful actresses, but when it comes to Cannes, Aishwarya is the one who made us proud year after year. Alia is doing well, but the credit for making Cannes popular in India goes to Aishwarya."
The debate between fans of the two actresses has been ongoing, with many comparing their red carpet appearances. However, Khanna's statement has added a new perspective to the discussion.
