It was a full house on the opening day of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024 as Bollywood stars like Karan Johar, Kartik Aaryan, Imtiaz Ali, Kabir Khan and others attended the event.
The film festival saw an illustrious lineup of stars. The event was inaugurated with an official press conference by Bollywood actors who expressed their gratitude for being invited as the festival celebrates Indian films and the impact of the same on the world.
The festival was officially kicked off with keynote words by Caroline Pitcher from VicScreen as well as festival director and founder Mitu Bhowmik Lange. Mitu Bhowmik Lange, the festival's director and founder said, “It fills me with immense pride and joy to see the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne grow into such a grand celebration of Indian cinema and culture. This year, as we mark the 15th edition of the festival, we are thrilled to bring together some of the most respected names in Indian cinema to Melbourne. The festival has always been about building bridges between cultures, and it’s heartwarming to see the support we have received from both the Indian film fraternity and the Victorian Government."
The festival held in Melbourne is a ten-day long affair from August 15 to August 25 in Melbourne. The festival will celebrate the diversity of Indian cinema with screenings across various Indian languages, as well as cultural programs that highlight the rich heritage shared by the two countries.
Ace filmmaker Karan Johar said, “I’m extremely excited about watching the opening night film. What sets IFFM apart from other festivals is its true standing for diversity. It’s one of those festivals that truly champions inclusivity in every regard”.
Indian actor Kartik Aaryan said, “This is my second time at IFFM. Really looking forward to the festival this year. And also excited to see the films that are part of the festival this year”.
In addition, directors Kabir Khan, Shoojit Sircar, Rima Das and actors like Adarsh Gourav, Lakshya and singer Sona Mohapatra also made it to the event.