Chhaya Kadam: From Laapataa Ladies to Cannes 2024 Triumph
Chhaya Kadam is making headlines for all the right reasons. Known for her role as Manju Mai in Laapataa Ladies, her film ‘All We Imagine is Light' won the Grand Prix Award at Cannes 2024.
This year’s Cannes Film Festival saw a significant presence from Indian cinema, including actors, directors, and producers. Among them, Chhaya Kadam, also known as ‘Manju Mai’ from ‘Laapataa Ladies,’ stood out. Kadam attended Cannes for Payal Kapadia’s film ‘All We Imagine is Light,’ which received an eight-minute-long standing ovation. While she’s known for her role as Manju Mai, Chhaya has portrayed various characters in Marathi and Hindi films with remarkable ease.
Despite being in the film industry for almost two decades, Chhaya Kadam hasn’t always been a household name. However, with ‘Laapataa Ladies’ and her appearance at Cannes, she’s finally getting the recognition she deserves. Let’s take a closer look at Chhaya’s inspiring journey.
Chhaya Kadam's Background: Daughter of a Mill Worker
Born into a middle-class family in Kalina, Mumbai, Chhaya Kadam always had a passion for acting. She participated in numerous plays during her high school years. Kadam attended Sathaye College in Vile Parle, where she displayed her versatility by playing state-level kabaddi and graduating in Textile Design.
Before entering the film industry, Kadam was active in theatre. Although her debut film, Baimanus, never released, she made her Bollywood debut in ‘Singham Returns’ with Ajay Devgn. She gained significant recognition with Nagraj Manjule’s ‘Fandry’ and went on to star in successful films like Highway, Sairat, Andhadhun, Gangubai Kathiawadi, Laapataa Ladies, and Madgaon Express.
Chhaya Kadam's First Appearance at Cannes 2024
Chhaya Kadam’s appearance at Cannes 2024 was a proud moment for India. The team of ‘All We Imagine is Light’ not only turned heads but also won hearts on the red carpet. Payal Kapadia became the first Indian director to win the prestigious Grand Prix Award at Cannes 2024. Kadam’s humble and charming presence was highlighted by her choice to wear her late mother’s ivory silk saree and nath, staying true to her cultural roots.
Chhaya Kadam: From Overlooked to Acclaimed at Cannes
Actor Chhaya Kadam shares her journey, from being overlooked in film reviews to having a Grand Prix-winning film at Cannes.
This year has undoubtedly been a milestone for Chhaya Kadam. After success with previous films like “Laapataa Ladies” and “Madgaon Express,” her film “All That We Imagine As Light” made history by becoming the first Indian film to win the Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. Another of her films, “Sister Midnight,” was screened at Directors' Fortnight. Reflecting on the Grand Prix win, Kadam expressed her amazement: “Our film was the first Indian movie in 30 years to compete in the main event, and we won! It's a story deeply rooted in our culture, about women like us. It's incredible that it was selected.”
Acknowledging her recognition at Cannes, Kadam said, “People called me ‘Manju Mai' from ‘Laapataa Ladies.' It was wonderful to hear my name known internationally.”
Kadam’s acting career began in 2006, featuring in notable Marathi films like “Fandry” (2013), “Sairat” (2016), and “Nude” (2018). She recalls the struggle for recognition, noting that her name was often omitted from reviews, despite significant roles. “It was disheartening, but it pushed me to work harder so that my contributions couldn’t be ignored,” she added with a laugh.
Overjoyed at Cannes
One of the most memorable moments at Cannes this year was the dance by the “All We Imagine As Light” team at their premiere. This celebration foreshadowed their win, said Kadam. The film, directed by Payal Kapadia, explores the lives of two Mumbai nurses and won the Grand Prix, the festival’s second-highest honor.
Kadam shared her overwhelming happiness: “I can’t even express how happy I am.” She fondly remembers the celebratory dance on the red carpet, a spontaneous moment of joy that even photographers encouraged. Hearing the Marathi song “Gulabi Saree” as she arrived for the premiere made the occasion even more special.
The film, a collaboration between India and France, was highly praised after its screening. It tells the story of Prabha, a Mumbai nurse dealing with life changes after receiving a rice cooker from her estranged husband. Her roommate, Anu, seeks privacy in her relationship, while their friend Parvati faces eviction from her home.
Kadam reflected on the importance of breaking conventions, a theme of the film: “This film taught me to break rules and create our own. We should tell more stories like this. They are valuable and deserve to be told.”
Historic Win
Payal Kapadia became the first Indian female filmmaker to win this prestigious award. The film's win was celebrated widely, with Kapadia acknowledging the contributions of her lead actors in her acceptance speech. Kadam praised Kapadia: “Payal is incredible. She ensured we were part of every moment, highlighting the film's theme of friendship among women of different ages.”
In an emotional Instagram post, Kadam shared that she wore her late mother’s saree and nose ring at Cannes, honoring her memory. “My mother passed away last August, and wearing her saree felt like bringing a part of her to this significant moment,” Kadam said.
“I started earning quite late; everything got delayed. I had hoped to do that, but she left me. So, when I was there, though I had bought a different outfit, I felt like I should wear my mother's saree because she would have worn that at Cannes had she been alive,” Kadam said.
From Manju Mai to various other memorable characters, Chhaya Kadam has made a lasting impression with her grace and talent. Her journey is a testament to her dedication and passion for acting, making her a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
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