Actress and politician Kangana Ranaut has come out strongly in support of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan after the former Miss World faced criticism and body-shaming comments over her appearance at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival. Kangana’s remarks have sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many users praising her for standing against online trolling and unrealistic beauty standards.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, a long-time attendee and global ambassador at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, once again captured international attention with her red-carpet appearance this year. The actress arrived in a striking blue couture gown designed by renowned Indian designer Amit Aggarwal. The outfit featured sculptural elements, a mermaid-inspired silhouette, and a flowing sheer drape that added elegance and drama to the overall look.
While many fashion enthusiasts and fans applauded Aishwarya for embracing a bold and distinctive style, a section of social media users criticized her appearance and made insensitive remarks about her body. The criticism quickly gained traction online, leading to a broader debate about ageism, beauty standards, and the treatment of women in the public eye.
Responding to the criticism, Kangana Ranaut shared her thoughts on social media and defended Aishwarya against the negative comments. Kangana emphasized that fashion is a personal form of expression and that no woman should be expected to conform to public expectations simply to satisfy critics.
According to Kangana, style reflects an individual’s personality, experiences, and outlook on life. She argued that women do not owe anyone a particular appearance and should be free to present themselves in whatever way makes them feel confident and comfortable. She further praised Aishwarya’s appearance, stating that the actress looked beautiful and carried herself with confidence and grace.
Kangana also addressed comments targeting Aishwarya’s age, suggesting that society needs to become more accepting of older women occupying glamorous and high-profile spaces. Her statement resonated with many users who felt that women are often judged more harshly than men when it comes to aging and appearance.
Aishwarya’s Cannes ensemble, titled “Luminara,” was inspired by the concept of light, transformation, and movement. Designer Amit Aggarwal explained that the creation was intended to symbolize strength and radiance while celebrating Aishwarya’s enduring presence on the global stage. The garment combined innovative craftsmanship with artistic design elements, creating one of the most talked-about fashion moments of the festival.
During her stay in Cannes, Aishwarya also appeared in other elegant outfits, including a soft pink gown and a sophisticated white pantsuit. She was accompanied by her daughter, Aaradhya Bachchan, who also attracted attention for her stylish appearance at a L’Oréal Paris event.
The incident has once again highlighted the challenges celebrities face in the age of social media, where public figures are often subjected to intense scrutiny. At the same time, Kangana’s defense of Aishwarya has encouraged conversations about self-expression, confidence, and the importance of rejecting body-shaming culture.
Despite the criticism, Aishwarya’s Cannes appearance remains one of the festival’s most discussed fashion moments, with supporters praising her confidence, individuality, and ability to evolve while staying true to her unique style.
