Fans lose it as Aishwarya goes missing from the Cannes 2026 campaign posters while Alia gets the spotlight

The buzz around the 2026 Cannes Film Festival has already reached fever pitch, but this time, the spotlight is not just on fashion or films. A fresh controversy has erupted online after beauty giant L'Oréal Paris shared a promotional video ahead of the grand event, leaving many fans of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan visibly upset.

For years, Aishwarya has been one of the most iconic Indian faces at Cannes. Her appearances on the red carpet have often become global talking points, from dramatic gowns to unforgettable beauty looks. So when fans noticed that she was missing from L’Oréal Paris’ latest Cannes campaign visuals, social media exploded with reactions.

Fans Ask: ‘Where Is Aishwarya?’

The controversy began after L’Oréal Paris, the official makeup partner of the Cannes Film Festival, uploaded a video from the famous Hotel Martinez in Cannes. The clip showcased giant posters of the brand’s global ambassadors displayed across the property.

Hollywood names like Viola Davis, Eva Longoria and Helen Mirren were prominently featured. Representing India in the campaign visuals was Alia Bhatt. However, fans were quick to point out that Aishwarya’s poster was nowhere to be seen.

Within minutes, the comment section was flooded with disappointed reactions. Several users questioned how the actor, who has walked Cannes for over two decades, could be left out of the campaign. Many fans called Aishwarya “the face of Cannes for India” and claimed the festival feels incomplete without her presence.

A Two-Decade Bond With Cannes And L’Oréal

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been associated with L’Oréal Paris since 2003 and remains one of the brand’s longest-standing ambassadors from India. Over the years, she has built a strong identity at Cannes with memorable appearances that continue to trend online even today.

On the other hand, Alia Bhatt joined the brand as a global ambassador in 2024. The actress is also expected to make another glamorous appearance at Cannes this year. She has already arrived in the French Riviera city and was recently photographed in a structured blazer look paired with luxury Gucci accessories.

While many fans praised Alia’s fashion moment, others insisted that the debate was never about comparing the two actors. Instead, they felt Aishwarya deserved recognition for her long association with both the brand and the festival.

Apart from Aishwarya and Alia, several Indian celebrities are expected to walk the Cannes red carpet this year, including Aditi Rao Hydari, Kalyani Priyadarshan, Tara Sutaria, Mouni Roy, Jacqueline Fernandez, Ammy Virk and Karan Johar.