The Indian Film Festival Melbourne will celebrate 15 years of the film festival with a mega event. The news was announced by the Governor of Victoria,&nbsp;Margaret Gardner AC, at a&nbsp;IFFM industry event held in Mumbai. Among those that attended were Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM, IFFM Festival Director, along with various leading films makers, studio heads, stars and stakeholders of the Indian film industry.&nbsp; 
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IFFM 2024 will open on August 15, 2024 and will feature all the festival favourites including the Indian Independence Day Celebrations (flag hoisting), IFFM Awards night, IFFM Dance Competition and IFFM Closing Night. 
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The organisers also announced a new&nbsp;festival initiative called IFFM Baari, which means “House” in Bengali. IFFM Baari will be an inclusive space for founders and leaders from diverse creative industries to engage with emerging creative voices especially from the south Asian communities. The IFFM Baari will be a hub to support, empower and grow exciting and diverse creative narratives, with a variety of events, including a keynote speaker, panel discussions, networking events and comedy. Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-members-rm-and-v-begin-their-mandatory-military-service-jimin-and-jung-kook-set-to-follow-suit-668601">BTS members RM and V begin their mandatory military service; Jimin and Jung Kook set to follow suit</a>

At the event, veteran actress Shabana Azmi was given the IFFM Excellence Award. While it was announced in 2023, the actress was unable to accept the award at the time. Renowned for her powerful and versatile performances in Indian cinema, Azmi has received multiple accolades including five National Film Awards during her four-decade career.

Speaking of the event and the developments, the governor said, “Founded in 2010, the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne brings Victorians together to experience the best of Indian Filmmaking, including the recent screen initiative, known as ‘My Melbourne.' This project has seen the Festival partner with renowned Indian filmmakers to create films reflecting the lived experience of the Indian Diaspora in Melbourne and highlight the diversity of those experiences. We are indeed fortunate to have this rich cultural event in Victoria. “

Shabana Azmi expressed of the honour, “I am so grateful I was here amongst this small yet important gathering of my peers from the industry. I always believe it’s the actors who get all the honours and attention, but I truly believe that actors and films are a result of all the teams behind the camera. I am thankful to every technician, spot boy, light guy, everyone who deserve to be celebrated. I’m grateful to the Governor, the Government of Victoria and IFFM to honour me with the Excellence in Cinema Award”. 
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This year will premiere My Melbourne. Set in Melbourne with a local cast and crew, mentored by four of the world’s best film makers – Rima Das, Kabir Khan, Imtiaz and Onir, My Melbourne is a ground-breaking format with four relevant and timely stories celebrates diversity with new films celebrating the LGBTQAI+ community, disability, race and gender. 
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Working with the motto "a film with you, about you, and for you” the film series aims to authentically reflect the lived experiences and heartfelt stories of the community, drawing inspiration directly from their unique narratives. My Melbourne is a collaboration with Vic Screen and Screen Australia.

The Indian Film Festival Melbourne will celebrate 15 years of the film festival with a mega event. The news was announced by the Governor of Victoria, Margaret Gardner AC, at a IFFM industry event held in Mumbai.

The Indian Film Festival Melbourne will celebrate 15 years of the film festival with a mega event. The news was announced by the Governor of Victoria, Margaret Gardner AC, at a IFFM industry event held in Mumbai. Among those that attended were Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM, IFFM Festival Director, along with various leading films makers, studio heads, stars and stakeholders of the Indian film industry. IFFM 2024 will open on August 15, 2024 and will feature all the festival favourites including the Indian Independence Day Celebrations (flag hoisting), IFFM Awards night, IFFM Dance Competition and IFFM Closing Night. The organisers also announced a new festival initiative called IFFM Baari, which means “House” in Bengali. IFFM Baari will be an inclusive space for founders and leaders from diverse creative industries to engage with emerging creative voices especially from the south Asian communities. The IFFM Baari will be a hub to support, empower and grow exciting and diverse creative narratives, with a variety of events, including a keynote speaker, panel discussions, networking events and comedy. Also read: BTS members RM and V begin their mandatory military service; Jimin and Jung Kook set to follow suit At the event, veteran actress Shabana Azmi was given the IFFM Excellence Award. While it was announced in 2023, the actress was unable to accept the award at the time. Renowned for her powerful and versatile performances in Indian cinema, Azmi has received multiple accolades including five National Film Awards during her four-decade career. Speaking of the event and the developments, the governor said, “Founded in 2010, the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne brings Victorians together to experience the best of Indian Filmmaking, including the recent screen initiative, known as ‘My Melbourne.' This project has seen the Festival partner with renowned Indian filmmakers to create films reflecting the lived experience of the Indian Diaspora in Melbourne and highlight the diversity of those experiences. We are indeed fortunate to have this rich cultural event in Victoria. “ Shabana Azmi expressed of the honour, “I am so grateful I was here amongst this small yet important gathering of my peers from the industry. I always believe it’s the actors who get all the honours and attention, but I truly believe that actors and films are a result of all the teams behind the camera. I am thankful to every technician, spot boy, light guy, everyone who deserve to be celebrated. I’m grateful to the Governor, the Government of Victoria and IFFM to honour me with the Excellence in Cinema Award”. This year will premiere My Melbourne. Set in Melbourne with a local cast and crew, mentored by four of the world’s best film makers – Rima Das, Kabir Khan, Imtiaz and Onir, My Melbourne is a ground-breaking format with four relevant and timely stories celebrates diversity with new films celebrating the LGBTQAI+ community, disability, race and gender. Working with the motto "a film with you, about you, and for you” the film series aims to authentically reflect the lived experiences and heartfelt stories of the community, drawing inspiration directly from their unique narratives. My Melbourne is a collaboration with Vic Screen and Screen Australia.

Indian Film Festival Melbourne: Fest to honour Shabana Azmi, premiere Kabir Khan's My Melbourne

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the biggest celebration of Indian cinema outside of India, is all set to kick off its highly anticipated annual event from the 11th to the 20th of August this year. As part of its grand celebrations, the festival has announced that the esteemed Indian actress, Shabana Azmi, will do the distinguished honour of hoisting the Indian national flag on the morning of 12th August, in commemoration of the Independence Day weekend in India.

Shabana Azmi, an iconic and legendary figure in Indian cinema, holds a prominent position in the hearts of movie enthusiasts worldwide, said a release from the festival organisers.

With her exceptional talent and profound performances, she has etched an indelible mark in the Indian film diaspora, making her one of the most celebrated actresses of her time. A recipient of five National Film Awards, her versatile roles in acclaimed films such as Sparsh, Arth, Masoom, City of Joy, Tehzeeb, and Midnight's Children have not only won her numerous accolades but have also inspired a generation of actors and storytellers.

Speaking about the opportunity to hoist the tricolour at IFFM 2023, Shabana Azmi said, "I am happy to be a part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and deeply honoured to have been chosen to hoist the Indian national flag on this momentous occasion. IFFM has consistently showcased the incredible diversity and creativity of Indian cinema, and it is heartwarming to be part of such a prestigious event that brings our cinema to global audiences. This platform is even more special given our film R Balki’s, Ghoomer, is making its world premiere at the festival. To be given an opportunity to hoist our national tricolour in the presence of the amazing Indian community who live in Australia is truly an experience I am excited to be part of.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shocking-seann-william-scott-was-only-paid-this-much-amount-for-his-iconic-role-in-american-pie-620838">Shocking! Seann William Scott was only paid this much amount for his iconic role in American Pie</a>

Director of the festival, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, said, “We are thrilled to have the privilege of welcoming the legendary actor Shabana Azmi to hoist the Indian national flag at our Independence Day Celebrations. Shabana Azmi's remarkable contributions to Indian cinema and her unwavering commitment to storytelling have left an indelible mark on the film fraternity. Her presence at IFFM 2023 embodies the essence of our festival, which aims to showcase the rich tapestry of Indian cinema to global audiences. We are honoured to have her join us in this celebration of cultural unity and artistic brilliance."

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The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the biggest celebration of Indian cinema outside of India, is all set to kick off its highly anticipated annual event from the 11th to the 20th of August this year.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the biggest celebration of Indian cinema outside of India, is all set to kick off its highly anticipated annual event from the 11th to the 20th of August this year. As part of its grand celebrations, the festival has announced that the esteemed Indian actress, Shabana Azmi, will do the distinguished honour of hoisting the Indian national flag on the morning of 12th August, in commemoration of the Independence Day weekend in India. Shabana Azmi, an iconic and legendary figure in Indian cinema, holds a prominent position in the hearts of movie enthusiasts worldwide, said a release from the festival organisers. With her exceptional talent and profound performances, she has etched an indelible mark in the Indian film diaspora, making her one of the most celebrated actresses of her time. A recipient of five National Film Awards, her versatile roles in acclaimed films such as Sparsh, Arth, Masoom, City of Joy, Tehzeeb, and Midnight's Children have not only won her numerous accolades but have also inspired a generation of actors and storytellers. Speaking about the opportunity to hoist the tricolour at IFFM 2023, Shabana Azmi said, "I am happy to be a part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and deeply honoured to have been chosen to hoist the Indian national flag on this momentous occasion. IFFM has consistently showcased the incredible diversity and creativity of Indian cinema, and it is heartwarming to be part of such a prestigious event that brings our cinema to global audiences. This platform is even more special given our film R Balki’s, Ghoomer, is making its world premiere at the festival. To be given an opportunity to hoist our national tricolour in the presence of the amazing Indian community who live in Australia is truly an experience I am excited to be part of.” Also read: Shocking! Seann William Scott was only paid this much amount for his iconic role in American Pie Director of the festival, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, said, “We are thrilled to have the privilege of welcoming the legendary actor Shabana Azmi to hoist the Indian national flag at our Independence Day Celebrations. Shabana Azmi's remarkable contributions to Indian cinema and her unwavering commitment to storytelling have left an indelible mark on the film fraternity. Her presence at IFFM 2023 embodies the essence of our festival, which aims to showcase the rich tapestry of Indian cinema to global audiences. We are honoured to have her join us in this celebration of cultural unity and artistic brilliance." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shabana Azmi to hoist Indian flag at Indian Film Festival of Melbourne’s Independence Day celebration

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) will pay tribute to Indian filmmaker Karan Johar for completing 25 years in the Indian film industry as a celebrated director and producer. With a long line of super successful films to its credit, Karan Johar's production company Dharma Productions is possibly one of the most successful film companies in India. The IFFM will take place from August 11 to 20 and will showcase Karan Johar's exceptional contribution to Indian cinema by hosting a series of events and special screenings in his honour.

Karan Johar, who made his directorial debut in 1998 with the iconic film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, has captivated and entertained audiences with his ability to tell larger-than-life stories. While they are fantasy and make-believe, his films have managed to make people laugh, cry and emote in every other way, connecting with his filmy characters. &nbsp;

IFFM aims to celebrate Johar's remarkable journey, his visionary storytelling, and his unwavering passion for cinema.

<h2>Here's what Karan Johar has to say about this recognition</h2>

Happy with this recognition, Karam Johar said, “I am deeply honoured to be a part of the 14th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. This year holds a special significance for me as I celebrate 25 years as a filmmaker, and I can't think of a better platform than this festival to commemorate this milestone in my career. Returning for the third time at the festival, I am overwhelmed by the love and support I have received from the Australian audience.”

“The festival's curation of a special experience and celebrations to mark this momentous landmark in my journey fills me with a sense of joy and gratitude. It is an opportunity for me to reflect upon the last 25 years as a filmmaker, the challenges, the triumphs, and the learnings that have shaped my artistic vision. I look forward to engaging in a special talk at the festival, where I will share insights and anecdotes from my journey, hoping to inspire and connect with fellow filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts,” he added.

Speaking about the upcoming celebration, Festival director Mitu Bhowmick Lange said, "Karan Johar is a true icon of Indian cinema, and his impact on the industry cannot be overstated. We are privileged to honour his extraordinary career and his invaluable contributions to Indian filmmaking at this year's Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. Karan's remarkable journey as a filmmaker spans 25 years, during which he has created a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come”.&nbsp;

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The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) will pay tribute to Indian filmmaker Karan Johar for completing 25 years in the Indian film industry as a celebrated director and producer.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) will pay tribute to Indian filmmaker Karan Johar for completing 25 years in the Indian film industry as a celebrated director and producer. With a long line of super successful films to its credit, Karan Johar's production company Dharma Productions is possibly one of the most successful film companies in India. The IFFM will take place from August 11 to 20 and will showcase Karan Johar's exceptional contribution to Indian cinema by hosting a series of events and special screenings in his honour. Karan Johar, who made his directorial debut in 1998 with the iconic film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, has captivated and entertained audiences with his ability to tell larger-than-life stories. While they are fantasy and make-believe, his films have managed to make people laugh, cry and emote in every other way, connecting with his filmy characters. IFFM aims to celebrate Johar's remarkable journey, his visionary storytelling, and his unwavering passion for cinema. Here's what Karan Johar has to say about this recognition Happy with this recognition, Karam Johar said, “I am deeply honoured to be a part of the 14th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. This year holds a special significance for me as I celebrate 25 years as a filmmaker, and I can't think of a better platform than this festival to commemorate this milestone in my career. Returning for the third time at the festival, I am overwhelmed by the love and support I have received from the Australian audience.” “The festival's curation of a special experience and celebrations to mark this momentous landmark in my journey fills me with a sense of joy and gratitude. It is an opportunity for me to reflect upon the last 25 years as a filmmaker, the challenges, the triumphs, and the learnings that have shaped my artistic vision. I look forward to engaging in a special talk at the festival, where I will share insights and anecdotes from my journey, hoping to inspire and connect with fellow filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts,” he added. Speaking about the upcoming celebration, Festival director Mitu Bhowmick Lange said, "Karan Johar is a true icon of Indian cinema, and his impact on the industry cannot be overstated. We are privileged to honour his extraordinary career and his invaluable contributions to Indian filmmaking at this year's Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. Karan's remarkable journey as a filmmaker spans 25 years, during which he has created a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come”. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2023 to celebrate Karan Johar’s 25th anniversary as filmmaker

Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi who was recently seen in feature film ‘Mimi’ will be honoured with Diversity in Cinema Award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) on August 20.&nbsp;

An actor who has given us a wide range of characters that we today love and adore, will be recognised for his work in films and shows in India. From ‘Ludo’ to ‘Mirzapur’ or ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, Pankaj has managed to impress one and all with his on-screen performances.

Speaking about the award, Pankaj said, “My intent is to perform to the best of my capabilities, and I am so grateful that my performances are appreciated by the audience. I am truly honoured and equally humbled to receive this award and it makes me very happy that such a prestigious film festival has recognised my work.”

Tripathi has also been nominated for the Best Performance (Male) in the film category for Ludo and for the Best Performance (Male) in series for Mirzapur 2. His short film Laali also made it to the festival this year.

The award will be presented by director Anurag Kashyap.

The festival’s director, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, said that Pankaj is being identified and honoured with the award for his performance in various films. He added, “We at IFFM are elated to present one of our highest awards to the prolific actor, Pankaj Tripathi. With his acting prowess and unsurpassed talent, he makes every character riveting. IFFM has always stood for diversity through cinema and Pankaj Tripathi is an embodiment of the same. He plays diverse roles with such finesse making him perfect for this award.”

Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi who was recently seen in feature film ‘Mimi’ will be honoured with Diversity in Cinema Award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) on August 20.

Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi who was recently seen in feature film ‘Mimi’ will be honoured with Diversity in Cinema Award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) on August 20. An actor who has given us a wide range of characters that we today love and adore, will be recognised for his work in films and shows in India. From ‘Ludo’ to ‘Mirzapur’ or ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, Pankaj has managed to impress one and all with his on-screen performances. Speaking about the award, Pankaj said, “My intent is to perform to the best of my capabilities, and I am so grateful that my performances are appreciated by the audience. I am truly honoured and equally humbled to receive this award and it makes me very happy that such a prestigious film festival has recognised my work.” Tripathi has also been nominated for the Best Performance (Male) in the film category for Ludo and for the Best Performance (Male) in series for Mirzapur 2. His short film Laali also made it to the festival this year. The award will be presented by director Anurag Kashyap. The festival’s director, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, said that Pankaj is being identified and honoured with the award for his performance in various films. He added, “We at IFFM are elated to present one of our highest awards to the prolific actor, Pankaj Tripathi. With his acting prowess and unsurpassed talent, he makes every character riveting. IFFM has always stood for diversity through cinema and Pankaj Tripathi is an embodiment of the same. He plays diverse roles with such finesse making him perfect for this award.”

Pankaj Tripathi to be honoured with the Diversity in Cinema Award at IFFM

Actor Richa Chadha and filmmaker Onir have been elected as the jury for the Short Film Competition for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2021. 
 
The theme for this year`s short film competition is Modern Slavery and Equality. Richa is quite excited to attend the upcoming film festival as a judge. 
 
Sharing her happiness on the same, Richa said, "I feel completely honored to have the faith of members of IFFM in having me as their jury member to judge their Short Film Competition this year along with the lovely Onir. The theme of this year`s competition is, I believe, not only relevant but of extreme importance that needs our urgent attention." 
 
"I can`t wait to see the entries we get this time around the theme of equality and modern slavery. It`s important to celebrate all formats of entertainment and shorts are such a founding concept for budding Filmmakers and storytellers, to give voice and recognition to their style of filmmaking. Speaking from my personal experience having both acted and directed short films, it`s extremely tough to tell an entire story within a fairly short period of time," she added. 
 
Director Onir thinks the theme of the short film competition will give filmmakers a chance to explore different sides of society which reflect humanity. 
 
"As someone who has been associated with the festival right from the start, I am always fascinated and impressed by the depth and diversity of the short films that compere. I think that modern-day slavery runs in streams throughout our present world and the severe exploitation of people comes in many forms," he said. 
 
"And while our Constitution says that every single person has the Right to Equality, is that really the case in reality? This year`s theme gives filmmakers a chance to explore these sides of society which reflect the kind of humanity we have in present times. I am excited to see what the filmmakers come up with," he added. 
 
IFFM will be held both physically and virtually with the physical festival running from August 12 to August 20, while its digital edition will run from August 5 to August 30 Australia-wide.

Actor Richa Chadha and filmmaker Onir have been elected as the jury for the Short Film Competition for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2021. The theme for this year`s short film competition is Modern Slavery and Equality.

Actor Richa Chadha and filmmaker Onir have been elected as the jury for the Short Film Competition for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2021. The theme for this year`s short film competition is Modern Slavery and Equality. Richa is quite excited to attend the upcoming film festival as a judge. Sharing her happiness on the same, Richa said, "I feel completely honored to have the faith of members of IFFM in having me as their jury member to judge their Short Film Competition this year along with the lovely Onir. The theme of this year`s competition is, I believe, not only relevant but of extreme importance that needs our urgent attention." "I can`t wait to see the entries we get this time around the theme of equality and modern slavery. It`s important to celebrate all formats of entertainment and shorts are such a founding concept for budding Filmmakers and storytellers, to give voice and recognition to their style of filmmaking. Speaking from my personal experience having both acted and directed short films, it`s extremely tough to tell an entire story within a fairly short period of time," she added. Director Onir thinks the theme of the short film competition will give filmmakers a chance to explore different sides of society which reflect humanity. "As someone who has been associated with the festival right from the start, I am always fascinated and impressed by the depth and diversity of the short films that compere. I think that modern-day slavery runs in streams throughout our present world and the severe exploitation of people comes in many forms," he said. "And while our Constitution says that every single person has the Right to Equality, is that really the case in reality? This year`s theme gives filmmakers a chance to explore these sides of society which reflect the kind of humanity we have in present times. I am excited to see what the filmmakers come up with," he added. IFFM will be held both physically and virtually with the physical festival running from August 12 to August 20, while its digital edition will run from August 5 to August 30 Australia-wide.

Richa Chadha, Onir elected as jury for Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 

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