Rahul Bhat returns to Cannes for the third time with Hollywood debut 'Lost and Found in Kumbh'

Rahul Bhat returns to Cannes for the third time with Hollywood debut 'Lost and Found in Kumbh'

Following the global acclaim of Netflix’s Black Warrant, Indian actor Rahul Bhat is all set for his third appearance at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival—this time with his Hollywood debut Lost & Found in Kumbh. The English-language dramedy will be showcased at the Cannes Film Market and marks a new chapter in Bhat’s versatile career.

Having previously walked the Cannes carpet for Anurag Kashyap’s Ugly in 2013 (Directors’ Fortnight) and Kennedy in 2023 (Midnight Screening), Bhat now returns with a film that promises a lighter, heartwarming touch, far removed from the intense roles he's known for.

Lost & Found in Kumbh, directed by debutant Mayur Puri and produced by LA-based Mulberry Films, follows the story of a London-based philosophy professor who visits India’s Kumbh Mela with his British wife and son. The trip takes an unexpected turn when he encounters his Indian ex-wife and their son at his ancestral home—only to discover that his father has mysteriously gone missing. The chaos of the sacred Kumbh festival becomes the backdrop for a poignant and often humorous journey, as two half-brothers get lost in the crowd and the family comes together in unexpected ways.

Speaking about his role and the film’s tone, Bhat shared, “For a change, somebody offered me a dramedy. I’ve always been cast in dark, serious, violent roles. So I thought, let me try something different, something in English.” He added, “We shot at the end of the Kumbh, but it was still intense—so hot, and so many people. It was tough, but also fascinating. This one’s not meant to be taken too seriously. It’s a cute, engaging film. You could call it a dramedy—or even a children’s film in some ways.”

Bhat also reflected on the real-life backdrop of the shoot. “As actors, we sometimes forget we’re shooting at a real place. You’re so immersed in the role, it starts to feel like just another set. But it wasn’t. It was the Kumbh. It was real.”

Fresh off the success of Black Warrant, which emerged as one of Netflix’s most-watched global titles, Bhat is embracing this new wave of recognition. “I’m finally tasting success after decades. My films have always been critically acclaimed, but this is the first time I’m hearing that word—‘hit’—and it feels great,” he said.

Up next, Rahul Bhat will portray politician Sanjay Gandhi in Summer of 77, directed by Sudhir Mishra and set to stream on SonyLIV.