Soni Razdan has spoken out after daughter Alia Bhatt became the subject of intense online trolling following a viral moment from the Cannes Film Festival 2026 red carpet.
The controversy erupted after a short video clip from Cannes began circulating widely on social media. In the footage, Alia is seen smiling, waving and blowing kisses while photographers on the red carpet appeared momentarily distracted. The internet quickly interpreted the brief moment as a “snub,” with several users claiming the actor had been ignored by international media during her Cannes appearance.
As the clip continued to trend online, the discussion gradually expanded beyond celebrity gossip and evolved into a broader debate surrounding validation, misogyny and social media behaviour.
Reacting to the controversy, Soni Razdan commented on an Instagram post shared by writer Shunali Khullar Shroff, who defended Alia and criticised the nature of the online backlash.
Soni wrote, “Social media is full of many things — love, information, entertainment — and… a lot of hate. And more than anything else, it reveals something about society. A very interesting sociological discussion could ensue and be discussed and studied for years to come.”
Writer Shunali Khullar Shroff argued that the viral narrative reflected society’s obsession with Western validation and the tendency to celebrate perceived rejection when it involves successful women in the public eye.
In her widely shared note, she stated that Alia Bhatt had not actually been ignored at Cannes and pointed out that the Cannes red carpet is often chaotic, crowded and constantly shifting, with photographers simultaneously calling out to multiple celebrities.
She also noted that Alia already holds a strong global and national presence as a National Award-winning actor, box office star and global ambassador for L’Oréal Paris.
Amid the trolling, Alia herself also subtly addressed the criticism with a witty response on social media. Replying to a comment that read, “What a pity, no one noticed you,” the actor responded, “Why pity love? You noticed me :)”
This marked Alia’s second consecutive appearance at Cannes as a representative of L’Oréal Paris.
On the professional front, Alia is currently preparing for the release of YRF’s spy thriller Alpha alongside Sharvari. She will also be seen in Love and War directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.
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