French President Emmanuel Macron stirred a lively debate online after sharing photographs from his recent Mumbai visit. During his three-day trip to India in February 2026, Macron met several well-known faces from the Indian film and music industries. Soon after, he posted images from the interaction on his official X account.
The post quickly grabbed attention. Alongside the pictures, Macron wrote, “Alongside legends of Indian cinema. Culture brings us together”. While the message aimed to celebrate cultural exchange, reactions on social media were sharply divided.
The gathering featured a mix of acclaimed artists and industry names. Among those present were Anil Kapoor, Shabana Azmi, Manoj Bajpayee and Richa Chadha. Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kej also attended.
Reports suggest the discussion centred on strengthening Indo-French creative ties. Topics included independent cinema, artistic collaborations and positioning France as a preferred destination for Indian film shoots.
DON'T MISS
Emmanuel Macron Sparks Debate With His ‘Legend’ Remark
Despite the diplomatic tone of the tweet, many netizens questioned Macron’s description of the attendees. Several users challenged the use of the word “legends”, arguing that the label did not fit everyone in the lineup.
Read some user comments to his post below
“Genuine question … when did she start representing Indian cinema? And who decided this lineup was the best we have?”
“Bhai legend kaun hai isme?”
“They are not legends …. Truth be told. Your guys messed up. They invited the wrong set of people.”
“What a failure at selecting legends of Indian cinema! Really a shame.”
“Legend of Indian cinema? Not a single person here is a legend.”
“If Richa Chadha is a legend, then I am also the most good looking man on this planet.”
“Sir you are fooled.”
“Dear Emmanuel, you have met the wrong legends! True legends don’t show in this list. Please study Indian cinema! Thanks.”
Some reactions were harsher. A few users accused the selection of being politically motivated. Others criticised the perceived disconnect between diplomatic optics and public sentiment.
Still, many observers noted that social media outrage often amplifies polarised views. The tweet also received supportive responses praising cultural engagement.
Inside Macron’s Star-Studded Mumbai Interaction
President Macron’s Mumbai visit on Feb. 17, 2026, included a special two-hour lunch hosted with First Lady Brigitte Macron at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. The menu reportedly featured an Indo-French fusion spread, including dishes like “desi ratatouille” and “paneer bhurji dumplings”.
The atmosphere blended diplomacy with cultural appreciation. During the event, Ricky Kej introduced Anil Kapoor to Brigitte Macron. She had reportedly expressed admiration for Kapoor’s performance in Slumdog Millionaire during her flight to India.
Beyond the industry interaction, Macron’s schedule reflected symbolic gestures. He began the day with a morning jog along Marine Drive. Later, he paid tribute to the victims of the 2008 terror attacks at the Taj Mahal Palace.
Following his Mumbai engagements, Macron travelled to New Delhi. There, he participated in the India AI Impact Summit 2026, showing cooperation in technology and innovation.
