Who is Ruchi Gujjar? Cannes 2025 debutante who wore PM Modi necklace on red carpet

Ruchi Gujjar’s lehenga, crafted by designer Roopa Sharmaa.

Indian actor and model Ruchi Gujjar made a striking debut at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, turning heads not just for her opulent gold lehenga, but for an unusual accessory — a necklace featuring pendants of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s face. Gujjar wore the piece to the prestigious Chopard “Caroline’s Universe” Dinner, where her ensemble, rooted in Indian heritage, quickly became one of the most talked-about looks of the season.

“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,” Gujjar told News18.

Designed with traditional Rajasthani motifs, the necklace merged historical craftsmanship with bold contemporary symbolism. Featuring miniature portraits of the Prime Minister framed by pearls and red enamel lotuses, the jewellery was intended as both tribute and statement. It swiftly went viral, igniting debate and fascination across global social media platforms.

Gujjar’s lehenga, crafted by designer Roopa Sharmaa, was a deep gold bridal ensemble adorned with intricate Gota Patti, mirror work, and hand embroidery — a showcase of Rajasthani regal artistry. Completing the outfit was a handcrafted Bandhani dupatta from the atelier of Zaribari, designed by Ram and finished with ornate Zardozi embellishments. “Wearing this dupatta felt like I was draping the soul of Rajasthan,” she said.

The actor’s appearance at Cannes was more than a fashion moment; it was deeply personal and symbolic. “Prime Minister Modi has redefined India’s image across the world. I wanted to carry that pride with me, and this necklace was my tribute to his leadership. Representing Rajasthan and India at Cannes is not just a moment for me—it’s a message to the world about who we are,” she added.

In a festival known for its experimental couture and cinematic flair, Gujjar’s necklace stood out for its fusion of politics and fashion. “When I walked the red carpet, it felt like I was wearing the soul of Rajasthan,” she reflected.

While some online lauded the gesture as bold and patriotic, others were left bewildered by the overtly political tone. Nonetheless, it was a look that sparked wide conversation — carving a new space where fashion meets national identity.

Beyond the red carpet, Ruchi Gujjar has been steadily forging her path in India’s entertainment industry. A graduate of Maharani College in Jaipur, she moved to Mumbai to pursue her dreams in cinema. A former Miss Haryana 2023, Gujjar gained popularity through her appearances in music videos such as "Jab Tu Meri Na Rahi" and "Heli Mein Chor".

Her journey, however, has not been without obstacles. Raised in a Gujjar family in Rajasthan, Gujjar had to confront deep-rooted cultural expectations to step into the world of showbiz. “Since I belong to a Gujjar family, there, women are not allowed to work as I am working,” she said in an interview with 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 credited her father’s unwavering support in her decision to move to Mumbai. “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.

With a growing fanbase and several music videos under her belt, Gujjar is now aiming higher. “I want to work in South movies since audiences love them, and I’d love to work in South movies,” she added.