A heartfelt welcome to the 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025!
It is with immense joy that I welcome you to yet another edition of IFFM - a celebration now sixteen years strong, championing the diverse voices of Indian and South Asian cinema.
In an increasingly fragmented world, where superficial divisions often overshadow our shared humanity, our theme this year - "Our Collective Home" - is a reminder to return to our roots, to recognise the power of community, and to hold space for one another through both struggle and triumph. It speaks to who we are - human first, differences later.
Over the years, IFFM has been privileged to be a platform for extraordinary films, courageous voices, and exceptional talent - both celebrated and emerging. This year’s lineup continues that legacy with a rich tapestry of storytelling: from soul-stirring features to hard-hitting documentaries and entertaining shorts, each film reflecting the myriad of realities, dreams, and complexities of India and the subcontinent. Our programme boasts of over 75 films across 31 languages, each one carefully curated and handpicked to inspire and move you.
We are especially honoured this year to welcome an icon: a cinematic visionary whose work dares to speak the unspeakable, and who consistently elevates the social discourse through his art. His films are not just blockbusters; they are movements. Join us in celebrating Aamir Khan, through special screenings of Taare Zameen Par, Lagaan, Dangal, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and his moving new release Sitaare Zameen Par! Don’t miss an exclusive in-depth conversation where he reflects on his remarkable journey, creative process, and the stories that inspire him.
At IFFM, we have always believed that the future of cinema lies in the power of authentic storytelling. At a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping creative landscapes, it is more critical than ever to champion originality, individuality, and the human voice. That’s why this year, we are proud to launch a new initiative - a 1000 AUD Emerging Talent Support Fund, aimed at empowering young filmmakers to travel to the festival, connect with peers and professionals, and find momentum for their next great story.
Beyond the screen, the festival is alive with conversation and connection. Don’t miss our thought-provoking panels with some of India’s most brilliant minds - writers, directors, actors, and producers - who will offer insights into the craft, the industry, and the road ahead. Celebrate the vibrancy of our culture at the much-loved Indian Dance Competition, and join us under the spotlight at our glamorous Awards Night at MCEC, honouring excellence in cinema.
We are also thrilled to announce the second instalment of My Melbourne - our collaborative project bridging Indian and Australian communities through the language of film. After the overwhelming success of the first edition, we are proud that this edition is helmed by master filmmakers Anjali Menon, Onir, Rajkumar Hirani, and Shoojit Sircar. Staying true to the spirit of the original, we remain committed to uplifting stories from diverse and often underrepresented voices - including individuals with disabilities, individuals belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals from marginalised backgrounds. It is a reflection of our deep belief that cinema should not only entertain, but also include, empower, and transform.
To our dedicated team, our generous sponsors, our passionate collaborators, and the tireless volunteers who make IFFM possible, thank you. Your belief in this vision fuels everything we do.
Let us celebrate not just cinema, but solidarity. Not just stories, but the storytellers.
Welcome to IFFM 2025.
Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM
IFFM Festival Director
