Maharashtra Minister Cancels Cannes Visit, Opts For Virtual Participation After PM Modi's Appeal

Last Updated:May 11, 2026, 17:57 IST

Ashish Shelar said the decision has been taken in line with the Prime Minister’s appeal for judicious use of resources and fuel conservation amid West Asia war.

Maharashtra Minister and BJP leader Ashish Shelar on Monday said the state has decided to cancel its planned visit to the Cannes Film Festival and will instead participate virtually, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for judicious use of resources and fuel conservation amid the ongoing war in West Asia.

Shelar said the decision has been taken in line with the Prime Minister’s call for citizens and public representatives to reduce non-essential expenditure, conserve fuel, and strengthen efforts to save foreign exchange amid global economic pressures.

“We have decided to cancel the planned visit to the Cannes Film Festival. However, the relevant mechanisms will remain present as per the plan for the necessary coordination and support related to the Marathi films participating in this festival," Shelar told reporters.

The minister stressed the state government will ensure continued participation and promotion of Marathi cinema through online modes. “We will participate online through the telecasting system there as required to promote Marathi films at the Cannes Festival," he said.

He further added that the department would exercise restraint in expenditure and shift most routine meetings to virtual platforms. “We have also decided to exercise restraint in departmental expenses and to conduct most of the routine meetings through the department virtually," he said.

The 79th Cannes Film Festival is scheduled to be held from May 12 to May 23.

Shelar also said the state would promote greater use of electric vehicles and reduce fuel consumption in official work. He noted that vehicle usage would be restricted wherever possible, and EV adoption would be encouraged.

Referring to PM Modi’s appeal, Shelar said the message was timely and important. “This is a very correct point. Today, when countries across the world are seen being involved in wars, disruptions are created in the supply chain, and their direct impact is on the economy and on essential goods for citizens," he said.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Modi had urged citizens to adopt measures such as fuel conservation, reduced gold purchases, limited foreign travel, increased use of public transport, and a shift towards work-from-home practices. He stressed that such steps would help conserve foreign exchange reserves at a time of global energy price volatility.

(With inputs from agencies)

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