Ruchi Gujjar’s Cannes Look Featuring ‘PM Modi’ Necklace Sparks Debate Over Fashion, Politics And Cultural Representation
Making her first appearance on the prestigious Cannes Film Festival red carpet, emerging Indian model and actor Ruchi Gujjar turned heads not just for her opulent outfit, but for a bold political statement embedded in her jewelry, a necklace featuring the face of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Attending the Chopard Caroline Universe Dinner, Gujjar donned a shimmering gold lehenga designed by Roopa Sharmaa. The ensemble was a celebration of Indian craftsmanship, featuring intricate gota patti, mirror work, and fine hand embroidery, a nod to her Rajasthani heritage. She paired the look with a Bandhani dupatta by designer Ram of Zaribari, finished with Zardozi detailing.
“I wanted to honour my roots and my country’s rise under strong leadership,” Gujjar said, explaining her unconventional choice of necklace. “The necklace is more than just 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
However, the bold gesture ignited a social media storm back home. While some applauded her patriotism, many others questioned both the appropriateness and aesthetics of her tribute. Critics particularly took issue with juxtaposing a political figure’s image on an outfit considered revealing by traditional Indian standards.
“I’m from Rajasthan and this is offensive at best. You’ve turned our culture into a red-carpet gimmick,” wrote one user on Instagram. Others questioned her presence at Cannes altogether, calling the look “cheap couture” and accusing her of misrepresenting Indian heritage. Several comments centered on perceived disrespect toward traditional Rajput attire. “Have you ever seen a Rajput woman dress like this? No true Rajput would call this representation of Rajasthan anything but vulgar,” one critic remarked.
A former Miss Haryana (2023), Ruchi Gujjar is no stranger to the spotlight, but her Cannes debut has clearly ignited a larger conversation, about where culture meets couture, and when fashion statements cross into political territory.