IFFM 2021 celebrates contemporary, bold and thought-provoking cinema in its 12th edition as it attempts to encapsulate the best of drama, documentaries and films from the Indian subcontinent that created ripples despite the tough conditions induced by the ongoing health crisis.
The largest festival of its kind in the southern hemisphere, IFFM is providing an opportunity to cinema lovers worldwide to experience at home for free screenings of at least 127 films in 27 languages, including seven world premieres, 76 Australian premieres and a record high 34 films by female directors.
Highlights:
- 127 films in 27 languages are being screened as part of the ongoing Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
- IFFM awards ceremony to be held online on 20 August
- IFFM showcases films by 34 female directors
Sharing the highlights of the festival, Benu Bindra, a member of the IFFM organising committee, told SBS Punjabi that while fans in Melbourne may miss spotting Indian movie stars this year, the switch to online screening would not mar the magic of the annual festival that’s become a part of the local tradition.
“Obviously, we were forced to change the program last minute, but this year we are still going ahead with the awards night on 20 August, which will be virtually held, giving fans a chance to see their favourite stars online who have been nominated for this year’s awards.
“All fans have to do is register for the event, which is free of cost,” Ms Bindra said.
Helmed by a jury, the anticipated awards night on 20 August will felicitate members of the Indian film fraternity virtually, who have been nominated for categories, including best film, best indie film, direction, acting (male and female), best documentary, best series and best performance in series (male and female).
The awards night will be held virtually on 20 August. Source: Supplied by IFFM
Films such as 'Ludo' directed by Anurag Basu, 'Sherni' directed by Amit Masurkar, 'Soorarai Pottru' (Tamil) that is starred and produced by Suriya and directed by Sudha Kongara and 'God on the Balcony', an Assamese film starring Harish Khanna and directed by Biswajeet Bora have bagged top honours this year.
Apart from screening and celebrating path-breaking cinema, the festival is also paying tribute to three hugely beloved institutions of the Indian silver screen, including filmmaker Satyajit Ray, Bollywood icon Dilip Kumar and music legend SP Balasubrahmanyam.
Punjabi film ‘Chal Mera Putt 2’ starring Amrinder Gill and Simi Chahal is also being showcased as part of the festival.
Punjabi film ‘Chal Mera Putt 2’ starring Amrinder Gill and Simi Chahal is also being showcased as part of the festival. Source: Supplied by IFFM
Lauding the efforts of the organisers, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said: “It (the festival) is a chance to reflect on the enormous contribution India has made to the world and an opportunity to reaffirm the qualities that make India a great and vibrant democracy.”
“This incredible event – which draws visitors from across the world, both in-person and online – is an important celebration of India’s cinema and culture,” he said in a statement ahead of the event.
Click on the player at the top of the page to listen to the interview with Benu Bindra in Punjabi.
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