Premier

2015 Indian Film Festival Of Melbourne Begins

14 August 2015

The 2015 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) has arrived, bringing a two-week program of film, fashion and interactive events that celebrate the creative talents and traditions of India and beyond.

Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley launched the fourth festival today alongside stars Anil and Sonam Kapoor, and other leading Indian directors, producers, designers and critics who are in Melbourne for the festival.

More than 55 films from India, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh, will screen alongside a range of cultural events, including a day of festivities at Federation Square to mark Indian Independence Day on 15 August.

The celebrations will commence with a flag-raising ceremony, followed by a mass Bollywood dance competition open to all dancers.

The Festival also aims to foster the next generation of talent. Filmmakers will have the opportunity to take part in a masterclass with Indian indie filmmaker Nagesh Kukunoor, whose children’s film Dhanak took out a Grand Prix Award for Best Feature film at the 2015 Berlin Film Festival. Local performers will have a chance to learn the tools of the trade from famed Indian TV comedian Kiku Sharda.

The 2015 festival centres on the theme of ‘Equality’, which will be explored through a range of different lenses, from gender and sexuality to disability and religion.

Winners of the IFFM Awards will be announced at a red carpet gala event on 15 August at the National Gallery of Victoria.

The gala will feature a fashion show showcasing the work of Australian and Indian designers, including Anamika Khanna, the first Indian designer to be invited to Paris Fashion Week.

The IFFM runs from 14-27 August 2015. For full program details, visit www.iffm.com.auExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley

“The Andrews Labor Government proudly supports the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, an event that celebrates multiculturalism and our state’s close ties with India.”

“The Festival gives people the opportunity to experience Indian cinema and creativity, and enables our local creative industries to learn from one of the most successful film industries in the world.”

Quotes attributable to Film Victoria CEO Jenni Tosi

“The Indian Film Festival returns to Melbourne with the vibrancy and energy that only this event can produce.”

Quotes attributable to Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange

“We are incredibly excited to present this wonderfully diverse and vibrant festival. We can’t wait to see you all come and enjoy the many flavours, events and films that we have lined up for you.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

Was this page helpful?