The 16th edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 commenced in grand style, bringing together the best of Indian cinema on a global stage. The eleven-day festival, running from August 14 to 24, is already proving to be one of its most memorable editions, with star power, cinematic excellence, and cultural pride at its core.
Aamir Khan Inaugurates the Festival
Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan officially inaugurated the festival on August 14, alongside Gauri Spratt. Staying true to Indian tradition, he lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolising new beginnings and cultural pride. His respectful gesture of removing his shoes before the ritual drew heartfelt applause from the audience.
The celebrations reached a high point when Khan unveiled the highly anticipated Opening Night Film, Baksho Bondi. The screening was graced by its cast and crew, including acclaimed actor Tillotama Shome and actor-producer Jim Sarbh. Festival Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange described Baksho Bondi as “bold, moving, and the perfect Opening Night Film.”
In his remarks, Aamir Khan expressed his joy at finally attending the festival:
“It is truly an honour to open the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. I have been meaning to come here for the longest time and I’m glad I could finally make it. All my colleagues always spoke highly of the warmth of IFFM and I can now truly feel it coming my way. I wish the team of Baksho Bondi and all other films the very best, and I hope the Melbourne audiences enjoy these films and the spirit of cinema.”
Independence Day Celebrations at Federation Square
Beyond the glamour of the films and red carpets, the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025 also became a stage for patriotic pride as the community came together to celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day. On the morning of August 16, Federation Square — Melbourne’s iconic cultural hub — turned into a sea of saffron, white, and green as hundreds from the Indian diaspora and local community gathered for the annual flag-hoisting ceremony.
The highlight of the morning was Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, who joined festival dignitaries in unfurling the Indian tricolour. The sight of the flag fluttering in the heart of Melbourne was met with cheers, applause, and patriotic songs that filled the square. Many attendees waved miniature flags, while families dressed in traditional Indian attire added a festive vibrancy to the occasion.
In his brief address to the crowd, Aamir Khan reflected on the significance of the moment:
“It fills my heart with pride to see the Indian flag flying here in Melbourne, so far from home yet surrounded by the same love and emotion we feel in India. This celebration is not just about remembering our independence, but also about honouring the values of unity, justice, and cultural pride that connect us all.”
The ceremony concluded with a stirring rendition of the Indian national anthem, uniting the crowd in a shared sense of belonging. For many, it was a moment of deep nostalgia and pride — a reminder of cultural roots celebrated on global soil. The Independence Day event has long been one of the most cherished highlights of IFFM, symbolising the festival’s commitment to celebrating not only cinema but also the spirit of India.
IFFM 2025 Awards Night: Homebound Takes Top Honours
The festival’s Awards Night turned into a star-studded celebration of Indian cinema. Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, emerged as the biggest winner, bagging both Best Film and Best Director.
Aamir Khan was honoured with the festival’s prestigious Excellence in Cinema Award, recognising his enduring legacy and contribution to Indian cinema. In his acceptance speech, he credited his collaborators and audiences:
“Filmmaking is a collaborative art, and this award wouldn’t have been possible without my writers, directors, co-stars, and the audiences who have given me the opportunity to tell stories and be part of so many wonderful journeys.”
In acting honours, Abhishek Bachchan won Best Actor (Male) for his role in I Want to Talk, while Geetha Kailasam took home Best Actor (Female) for Angammal. Gugun Kigpen also received a special mention for his powerful performance in Boong.
Calling his win an emotional milestone, Abhishek Bachchan said:
“Life has come full circle for me. I came here in 2022, where I was feted with the Excellence in Cinema Award. To now receive Best Actor on the same stage, for a film that’s extremely special to me, is overwhelming.”
Veteran actor Arvind Swamy was honoured with the Leadership in Cinema Award, stating his desire to continue challenging himself:
“If anyone offers me a role today that’s in my comfort zone, I wouldn’t do it; I always want roles that challenge me.”
Complete List of IFFM 2025 Award Winners
- Best Film: Homebound
- Best Director: Neeraj Ghaywan (Homebound)
- Best Indie Film: Angammal
- Best Actor (Male) – Film: Abhishek Bachchan (I Want to Talk)
- Special Mention – Best Actor (Male) – Film: Gugun Kigpen (Boong)
- Best Actor (Female) – Film: Geetha Kailasam (Angammal)
- Best Series: Black Warrant
- Best Actor (Male) – Series: Jaideep Ahlawat (Paatal Lok Season 2)
- Best Actor (Female) – Series: Nimisha Sajayan (Dabba Cartel)
- Excellence in Cinema: Aamir Khan
- Leadership in Cinema: Arvind Swamy
- Disruptor Award: Vir Das
- Diversity in Cinema: Aditi Rao Hydari
- Equality in Cinema: Baksho Bondi
- Best Short Film (India): Kalar Pencils by Dhananjay Santosh Goregaonkar
- Best Short Film (Australia): Drifters by David Liu
A Festival That Bridges Cultures
As IFFM 2025 heads towards its closing on August 24, with Homebound scheduled as the final screening, the festival continues to stand as a powerful platform for Indian storytelling on a global stage. With red-carpet premieres, masterclasses, cultural showcases, and star-studded celebrations, IFFM reaffirms its role in bridging cultures and connecting audiences beyond boundaries.
