Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2023 (IFFM) is all set to bring a dazzling array of stars and cinematic delights to Melbourne. The festival, celebrating the best of Indian cinema, promises to be a spectacular celebration of talent, creativity, and cultural diversity. Let's take a closer look at some of the exciting highlights and honourees gracing this year's event.
Kartik Aaryan to Receive Rising Global Superstar Award: Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan will be honoured with the Rising Global Superstar of Indian Cinema award at the prestigious annual awards Gala night on August 11. The award, to be presented by the Governor of Victoria, recognizes Kartik's remarkable achievements and his significant impact on the world of Indian cinema. Kartik expressed his deep honor and gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing his belief in the power of storytelling and films to touch hearts and inspire minds. IFFM will also showcase multiple screenings of Kartik's acclaimed films, including 'Satyaprem Ki Katha' and blockbuster 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2'.
Bhumi Pednekar Receives the Disruptor Award: Bhumi Pednekar, known for her stellar performances in impactful roles, will be feted with the prestigious Disruptor Award at IFFM 2023. The award recognizes not only her acting prowess but also her relentless commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. Bhumi will engage in a special fireside chat on sustainability during the festival's opening day, further cementing her role as a catalyst for positive change. The Disruptor Award will be presented by a dignitary from the Victorian government, highlighting the festival's collaboration with the government in promoting impactful work in the entertainment industry.
Shabana Azmi to Hoist the Indian Flag: The veteran star and recipient of five National Film Awards, will have the esteemed privilege of hoisting the Indian flag at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) on August 12, in Honor of the Independence Day weekend. The festival, running from August 11 to 20, promises to showcase the diversity and creativity of Indian cinema to global audiences. Shabana Azmi expressed her delight at being part of the prestigious event, especially with her film, "Ghoomer," directed by R Balki, making its world premiere at the festival. Her presence at IFFM 2023 signifies the celebration of cultural unity and artistic brilliance in Indian cinema.
Karan Johar Honored for 25 Years in Cinema: Karan Johar, the renowned filmmaker with 25 illustrious years in the industry, will be honored at the 14th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). Taking place from August 11 to 20, the festival will pay tribute to Karan Johar's exceptional contribution to Indian cinema through a series of events and special screenings. Expressing his gratitude, Karan Johar stated that IFFM holds a special significance for him as it provides a perfect platform to commemorate this significant milestone in his career. He looks forward to engaging in a special talk, sharing insights and anecdotes from his journey, hoping to inspire and connect with fellow filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts.
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange acknowledged Karan Johar as a true icon of Indian cinema, honoring his extraordinary career and invaluable contributions to Indian filmmaking. His 25-year journey as a filmmaker has created a lasting legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.
R Balki's 'Ghoomer' to Open the Festival: 'Ghoomer', starring Abhishek Bachchan, Saiyami Kher, Angad Bedi, and Shabana Azmi, will open the IFFM 2023. The festival will kick off with this emotionally charged narrative that tells the inspiring story of a paraplegic sports person excelling in cricket under the guidance of her coach. R Balki and Abhishek Bachchan expressed their delight at the film being selected as the opening feature, calling it an honor and a tribute to sports and human resilience. Saiyami Kher, who plays the lead, shared her excitement about the film's Australian premiere and how it fulfills her dream of portraying a sportsperson on screen. The IFFM 2023 promises a series of exciting events across iconic venues in Melbourne, such as Hammer Hamer Hall and the National Gallery of Victoria, offering a unique backdrop for the festival's celebrations.
Anurag Kashyap's 'Kennedy' to Close IFFM 2023: Celebrated director Anurag Kashyap's highly anticipated movie, 'Kennedy,' has been selected as the prestigious closing night film of IFFM. The film, known for pushing the boundaries of Indian cinema with its bold and unique storytelling, received critical acclaim at its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. Anurag Kashyap will personally attend the screening and engage in an exclusive conversation session about 'Kennedy' with the live audience a day ahead of the closing night. The movie follows the gripping tale of an insomniac ex-cop entangled in a corrupt system while seeking redemption.
Founder and Festival Director of IFFM, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, expressed her enthusiasm for the film, praising Anurag Kashyap's groundbreaking work. She highlighted 'Kennedy' as a powerful film that engages the audience from start to finish. With stars like Sunny Leone and Rahul Bhat leading the cast, the closing night ceremony promises to be a star-studded affair, with Anurag Kashyap, Sunny Leone, and Rahul Bhat in attendance.
As the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2023 draws near, the stage is set for a celestial spectacle that will mesmerize audiences and ignite a love affair with Indian cinema and culture.
With over 100 films in 20 languages, discussions, and events, the 14th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will be a grand celebration of Indian cinema and culture. The festival aims to showcase the talent and creativity of Indian filmmakers to a global audience, fostering cross-cultural exchange and appreciation of cinema's magic. From red carpet events to thought-provoking films, IFFM 2023 has something in store for every film enthusiast and culture lover. The festival promises to be a cultural extravaganza, a tapestry of talent and creativity woven together to create a cinematic experience unlike any other. The event will take place from August 11 to August 20, 2023, and it promises to be an unforgettable cinematic journey!
For more info visit: www.iffm.com.au