16-May-2025, 06:00 PM Renowned Indian actor Anupam Kher made a heartwarming appearance at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where he reunited with Hollywood legend Robert De Niro. The moment, capturing decades of friendship and cinematic admiration, quickly went viral as fans and media celebrated this meeting of two global icons. Kher, who has often spoken of his deep respect for De Niro, greeted his longtime friend with a warm embrace at one of the most prestigious film events in the world.
The sight of Anupam Kher exchanging greetings with De Niro not only delighted film enthusiasts but also underscored the growing global presence of Indian cinema and its veterans.
Anupam Kher’s Presence at Cannes: A Blend of Legacy and Diplomacy
Anupam Kher Represents Indian Cinema on the Global Stage
Anupam Kher, one of India’s most celebrated actors, is no stranger to international film circuits. With an illustrious career that spans over 500 films and several appearances in Western cinema—including in movies like Silver Linings Playbook and The Big Sick—Kher has successfully bridged the gap between Bollywood and Hollywood.
At Cannes, Anupam Kher took part in multiple forums and red-carpet events, emphasizing the global rise of Indian storytelling. He used his presence at the festival to advocate for deeper Indo-global collaborations in filmmaking and to recognize cinema as a universal language that transcends borders.
The 68-year-old actor looked dapper in a classic black tuxedo and received a warm welcome from the international film community. His meet-up with De Niro was one of the major highlights of the festival’s opening days.
Anupam Kher and Robert De Niro: A Friendship Rooted in Art
The Backstory of Anupam Kher and De Niro’s Connection
Anupam Kher and Robert De Niro share a relationship that is based on mutual admiration and a shared love for acting. Their bond was first publicly acknowledged when Kher studied at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York—an institution deeply influenced by De Niro’s Method Acting techniques.
Their friendship blossomed over the years, with Kher often referring to De Niro as one of his idols. In 2012, the two actors even spent time together in New York during the International Film Festival of India events, where Kher hosted De Niro and shared insights into Indian cinema.
Meeting again at Cannes brought back memories of their earlier collaborations and encounters. Anupam Kher, speaking to reporters, said, “It’s always a delight to meet Bob (Robert De Niro). He’s a master of the craft, and every interaction with him is both educational and heartwarming.”
Cannes 2025: A Celebration of Diversity and Storytelling
Indian Films Shine Amid Global Line-Up
The 78th Cannes Film Festival has been especially remarkable for its inclusion of South Asian cinema. With several Indian films being screened, and Bollywood stars walking the red carpet, the festival is seen as a reaffirmation of India’s growing influence in global storytelling.
Anupam Kher, with his legacy and global appeal, acted as an unofficial ambassador for Indian cinema. His interactions with international media emphasized how Indian narratives are gaining prominence not just for their cultural richness but for their ability to connect universally.
He also expressed excitement over India’s younger generation of filmmakers, calling them “trailblazers” who are “redefining how Indian stories are told.”
Anupam Kher Reflects on Cinema’s Role in Cultural Diplomacy
Cinema Can Bridge Divides, Says Anupam Kher
During a panel discussion on “Cinema and Global Harmony,” Anupam Kher offered reflections on how films can influence society, politics, and culture. He spoke of how storytelling can bring people together during divisive times and emphasized that actors and filmmakers have a responsibility to uphold truth and hope.
“Cinema has the power to heal, unite, and educate,” Anupam Kher said. “Whether it’s a village in India or a street in Paris, people laugh and cry at the same scenes. That’s magic.”
He also acknowledged his journey—from a Kashmiri boy raised in Shimla to a global actor—as a testament to cinema’s ability to empower.
Anupam Kher’s Future Projects and Continued Global Engagement
Veteran Actor Still Has Stories to Tell
Despite being an industry veteran, Anupam Kher shows no signs of slowing down. During the festival, he hinted at his upcoming projects, both in India and abroad. He is currently working on a biopic based on an inspirational Indian social leader and is reportedly in talks for a cameo in a Hollywood political drama.
Kher also continues his motivational speaking endeavors and is actively involved in the Anupam Kher Foundation, which supports education, mental health, and underprivileged communities.
In an interview at Cannes, he said, “The hunger to tell stories, to live new lives through roles, is what keeps me going. And the world of cinema still excites me like it did 40 years ago.”
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
Fans Applaud Anupam Kher’s Elegance and Humility
The photo and video clip of Anupam Kher greeting Robert De Niro quickly gained traction across social media platforms. Fans praised Kher for his humility, elegance, and global stature.
Celebrities from both Indian and international film circles lauded the moment, calling it “a meeting of legends.” On Twitter, hashtags like #AnupamKher, #Cannes2025, and #RobertDeNiro trended for hours after the event.
One user wrote, “So proud to see Indian cinema being represented by someone as dignified and seasoned as Anupam Kher.”
Conclusion: A Memorable Cannes Chapter for Anupam Kher
The 78th Cannes Film Festival will be remembered for many things, but for Indian audiences, the heartwarming sight of Anupam Kher greeting Robert De Niro stands out as a symbol of how far Indian actors have come in the global cinema landscape.
Through his charm, wisdom, and commitment to cinema, Anupam Kher continues to inspire generations of artists. His appearance at Cannes is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of Indian cinema’s ever-growing reach and respect on the world stage.
As the red carpets roll on and lights shine bright, Anupam Kher’s journey reminds us that true artistry knows no boundaries—only bridges.
Source : ANI
