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Breakout star of Netflix’s Dubai Bling Farhana Bodi’s story spans continents: born in India, raised in South Africa, and now based in Dubai. She returned this year to the 78th Cannes Film Festival, of which she has been a regular at since 2017. With Cannes just having kicked off, she tells us about her experience of the festival, her company I Woman of the World and the impact Dubai Bling had on her life.Q. Tell us about your Cannes experience over the years.A. Cannes has been such a special chapter in my journey. I remember my first time on that red carpet, it felt surreal. Over the years, it’s become more than just about fashion or films. It’s about representing women on a global platform. Every year, I push myself to evolve, to bring something fresh, whether it’s through my styling, storytelling, or presence. But the butterflies? They never go away!Q. Anything about Cannes that isn’t spoken about much?Oh, so much! People see the photos but not the chaos before them: running in heels, changing outfits in vans, last-minute glam touch-ups, managing schedules with no sleep. And there’s a lot of emotion too. It’s not just glitter,  it’s grit behind the glamour.Q. How, when and why did you start I Woman of the World?I started I Woman of the World because I wanted to create a platform that wasn’t just about beauty or fashion, but about voice. I wanted to celebrate powerful women, their stories, their cultures, and their individuality. It began as a passion project and slowly turned into a global sisterhood. It’s my way of giving back and empowering women to own their narrative.Q. How did Dubai Bling happen?Dubai Bling kind of found me! I was approached for the show, and at first I wasn’t sure, letting cameras into your life isn’t easy. But I also saw it as a chance to show the world my life and to represent strong, independent Indian women on a big stage. It was intense, real, dramatic—and definitely a wild ride!Q. How did life change after Dubai Bling?In every way, honestly. People recognized me on the street, at airports, and even outside Dubai. It was overwhelming at first, but beautiful too. It opened doors, created conversations, and gave me a louder voice. But it also came with pressure, to stay grounded, authentic, and clear about who I am. I’ve learned to filter the noise and focus on my purpose.Q. What do you like best about Dubai?Everything! Dubai is where I found my independence, my rhythm, my tribe. It’s a city that lets you dream big and actually make those dreams happen. I love its energy, it’s bold, fast-paced, and unapologetically ambitious. Plus, let’s be real… no one does luxury quite like Dubai!Q. In tough times, what do you do to feel balanced and stronger?I go quiet. I journal. I pray. I spend time with my son, he’s my grounding force. I also surround myself with people who bring real energy, not just Instagram energy. And if all else fails, a solo spa day or long walk by the beach always helps reset my spirit.Q. Going by your Insta profile, it seems you sleep at night in a diamond-studded dress too? :-)Haha! Let’s just say, I like my nights to sparkle, even if it’s just my skincare routine doing the shining! But honestly, the glam is fun, but I promise there’s a cozy robe and messy bun side to me too. I just don’t post her often!