The Cannes countdown: Farhana Bodi on the BTS action before returning to the Riviera!

As people wait in anticipation to witness their favourite stars share their combined love for art and culture, Farhana Bodi talks to us about everything that leads up to walking the infamous red carpet.

The world was just recovering from reviewing, dissecting and talking about everything that the Met Gala served us and we're back to discussing the next big thing! Every cinema and fashion lover will have their eyes on the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Like the past few years, it’s an exciting year for India as many of our Indian celebrities and artists will be making their appearances on the red carpet. One of the many who will be returning to the carpet is Dubai Bling star and global celebrity, Farhana Bodi. 

Born in Gujarat, India, and raised in South Africa, Bodi's arrival reaffirmed her unmatched presence on the international fashion stage. Since her unforgettable debut in 2017, Farhana has transformed each Cannes appearance into a moment of cultural significance. As she prepares to walk the global runway tomorrow, she gave us a gist of what it’s like before the main event. From deciding on her looks to anticipating a new experience, there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, and she shares it with us!

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Read all about it here!

As someone who is no stranger to the Cannes red carpet, what does coming back on it this year mean for you?

Every time I step onto that red carpet, it feels like the first time. It’s iconic, it's surreal, and it's the ultimate runway, so personally, it’s a pinch-me moment every single year. Professionally, it’s a platform that keeps elevating. Cannes isn’t just a festival; it’s a global stage where fashion, film, and influence collide and I’m here for all of it!

How does preparing for Cannes this time feel different from your previous appearances?

This year feels more intentional. I’ve grown a lot, evolved my style and I’m stepping onto that carpet with a stronger sense of self. The prep feels less about "what to wear" and more about "what to say without saying a word." Every look tells a story and this year, the story is bold, feminine and completely me.

From the moment you get the invite to the final walk down the red carpet, what’s the behind-the-scenes prep really like?

It’s a glamorous hurricane! Think mood boards, fittings, last-minute couture edits, skincare that starts weeks in advance and a glam team that deserves its own award. But between the madness, there’s that one magical moment when everything clicks and you just know - this is the look.

What are some rituals you swear by while prepping for the event?

Hydrate like it’s your job, sleep like your skin depends on it because it does and never underestimate the power of a killer playlist during glam. Also, I swear by ice facials and quiet mornings, just 10 minutes to breathe before the chaos kicks in.

Cannes brings together an eclectic mix of fashion, art, and influence. What part of the experience off the carpet do you find most inspiring?

It’s those spontaneous moments, the conversations at dinners, the creatives you meet over coffee, the stories behind the gowns and the films. There’s so much depth behind the dazzle, and I live for that. It's not just about being seen, it’s about connecting.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

Serving a look that breaks the internet, obviously. But also, discovering emerging designers, connecting with global creators, and just soaking in the unapologetic glamour that only Cannes delivers.

Which emotions run through you right before stepping onto the red carpet? What’s going through your mind in that exact moment?

It’s a cocktail of butterflies, confidence, and a little bit of "don’t trip, don’t trip." But honestly, the second my heels hit the carpet, it’s game time. I tell myself - you’ve earned your place here, now walk like it.

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How excited are you for Cannes 2025? Tell us in the comments below.