Carrying the watermelon clutch on the red carpet at Cannes was All We Imagine As Light actor Kani Kusruti’s way of showing solidarity with Palestine. The watermelon slice has been a symbol of Palestinian resistance against Israeli occupation, reflecting the colors of the Palestinian flag. The film won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival 2024.
The green, red, and black beaded bag was a well-thought-out statement from the politically aware actor, says Kochi-based designer and stylist Diya John, who helped Kani put her look together.
“We bounced ideas on how she wanted to be styled. Kani mentioned incorporating an element that would show solidarity with Palestine,” says Diya, who runs the designer label Salt and a store, Salt Studio.
Kani had offers from labels outside Kerala, but she chose to showcase a homegrown designer on an international platform. Most of the outfits she wore at Cannes were designed and styled by Diya.
