Jodhpur’s Dr. Shalini Sharma Makes History with Cannes 2025 Selection, But Misses Event Due to Travel Disruptions
Dr. Shalini Sharma's handcrafted Khadi bridal lehenga was selected for Cannes 2025, making her the first female fashion designer from Rajasthan to earn this honor. Travel issues prevented her appearance, but her design gained global recognition.
Dr. Shalini Rajendra Sharma, a renowned fashion designer from Jodhpur, earned a historic achievement as her handcrafted Rajasthani bridal lehenga was officially selected for the Cannes Film Festival 2025. Made using Khadi tissue fabric and adorned with real pearls, rubies, silver ghungroos, and 5D peacock embroidery, the lehenga stood out among international entries and was selected by the prestigious Europe-Asia Fashion Alliance (EAFA) for the Cannes red carpet showcase.
This marked the first time a female fashion designer from Rajasthan had her work chosen for Cannes. What made it more remarkable was the fact that Cannes typically requires gowns for its red carpet format. However, the selection committee was so impressed by the lehenga’s craftsmanship and cultural essence that they made a rare exception—allowing Dr. Sharma to adapt her bridal lehenga into a gown silhouette without altering its traditional identity.
Unfortunately, despite this significant recognition, Dr. Sharma could not attend the festival due to unforeseen circumstances. Escalating tensions between India and Pakistan in May 2025 led to multiple flight cancellations from Jodhpur, creating logistical issues that prevented her and the dress from reaching Cannes on time. The event was held from May 13 to May 24.
Dr. Sharma had undergone a five-stage selection process, including interviews and design submissions, before receiving official confirmation in February. She had also sought government-level sponsorship, but time constraints and the geopolitical situation became major obstacles.
Despite missing this year’s red carpet, the designer's journey continues to inspire. She has already received fresh invitations for the next Cannes edition and the upcoming Paris Fashion Week. Through her initiative, Vastrashala Academy, Dr. Sharma is committed to training rural and underprivileged youth in fashion, textiles, embroidery, styling, and AI-based design, aiming to create more international opportunities for Indian talent.
Dr. Sharma’s story reflects not only the beauty of Indian craftsmanship but also the determination to take it to the world stage—no matter the hurdles.
