Indian model and actress Ruchi Gujjar made a grand entry at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, capturing attention not just with her stunning outfit but also with a bold statement piece. She wore a necklace featuring small pendants of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s face.
Gujjar wore this eye-catching accessory at the prestigious Chopard “Caroline’s Universe” Dinner, pairing it with a traditional Indian gold lehenga. Her look quickly went viral and sparked strong reactions online.
Honouring Modi Through Fashion
In a conversation with News18, Ruchi explained the meaning behind her unique necklace.
“The necklace is more than jewellery—it’s a symbol of strength, vision, and India’s rise on the world stage. By wearing it at Cannes, I wanted to honour our Prime Minister, whose leadership has taken India to new heights,” she said.
The necklace combined Rajasthani heritage with a modern political message. It included miniature portraits of PM Modi, framed with pearls and red enamel lotus motifs. This mix of traditional design and political symbolism made her appearance one of the most talked-about moments at Cannes this year.
A Regal Outfit Inspired by Rajasthan
Ruchi’s gold lehenga was designed by Roopa Sharmaa. The outfit featured detailed Gota Patti, mirror work, and hand embroidery, showcasing Rajasthan’s royal craftsmanship. To complete the ensemble, she wore a Bandhani dupatta created by the fashion house Zaribari and designed by Ram. It included heavy Zardozi work, adding depth to her look. “Wearing this dupatta felt like I was draping the soul of Rajasthan,” she shared.
A Political Statement on the Red Carpet
Cannes is known for bold fashion choices, and Ruchi’s Modi-inspired necklace brought politics to the red carpet. “When I walked the red carpet, it felt like I was wearing the soul of Rajasthan,” she added. Some viewers praised her for making a patriotic statement. Others questioned the political message in such a glamorous setting. Still, her look opened up a new space in fashion where style meets national identity.
Rising Star with Strong Roots
Off the red carpet, Ruchi is steadily building a career in the entertainment industry. She graduated from Maharani College in Jaipur and later moved to Mumbai to chase her Bollywood dreams. In 2023, she earned the title of Miss Haryana. She gained recognition through music videos like “Jab Tu Meri Na Rahi” and “Heli Mein Chor.”
Overcoming Barriers in Her Community
Ruchi grew up in a Gujjar family in Rajasthan, where women often face restrictions. She had to fight against traditional views to enter the entertainment world. “Since I belong to a Gujjar family, there, women are not allowed to work as I am working,” she told BollywoodMDB. “It was difficult to change how people think about women working in Bollywood. I want to be an inspiration in our community, who fought against the will of people’s thoughts. And I am the only one from my community who has come so far in the Bollywood industry,” she added.
Family Support Was Key
Ruchi credited her family, especially her father, for standing by her during her journey.
“My mother was very scared when I said I wanted to go to Mumbai to work in Bollywood; however, she’s quite proud of me that I’ve come so far. My father has always been very supportive since day one, now my entire family are supporting me,” she said.
Aiming for the South Film Industry
Now, with a growing fan base and multiple music videos to her name, Ruchi wants to expand her horizons. “I want to work in South movies since audiences love them, and I’d love to work in South movies,” she said.
