
Aamir Khan to be chief guest at Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025
The festival, which is scheduled from August 14 to 24, will include a special retrospective to celebrate Aamir's extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema.
There will also be a spotlight event surrounding Aamir Khan's latest release Sitaare Zameen Par, which features the actor as a basketball coach who mentors a team of neurodivergent adults for community service.
IFFM 2025 will honour Aamir Khan's artistic impact with a specially curated selection of films that reflect his bold, socially conscious storytelling, a press release said.
The screening of Sitaare Zameen Par at the festival will be followed by a conversation with Aamir, director RS Prasanna, and Aparna Purohit, CEO of Aamir Khan Films.
'I'm humbled and thrilled to be a part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. It's a festival that truly celebrates the spirit of Indian cinema in all its diversity and richness. I look forward to engaging with audiences, sharing some of my most cherished work, and being part of conversations that celebrate the power of film," Aamir said.
With Sitaare Zameen Par, the film's team has tried to tell a story that embraces inclusivity and neurodivergence with sensitivity and heart, he added.
"I'm grateful that the film has resonated with so many. I'm excited to share this journey with Melbourne and shine a light on the stories that matter," he said.
Festival director Mitu Bhowmick Lange hailed Aamir as a cinematic legend whose work has always reflected sensitivity, depth, and a fearless commitment to storytelling.
ALSO READ:'Sitaare Zameen Par' movie review: Aamir Khan's seasonal moral science class
"We are truly honoured to welcome him as our Chief Guest. His presence will undoubtedly elevate the festival experience for audiences and filmmakers alike. He is an artist who has consistently used cinema as a force for social change, and his journey continues to inspire generations.
"His work on Sitaare Zameen Par is a beautiful example of inclusive storytelling — filled with empathy, joy, and honesty," she added.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Hindustan Times
18 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Humour and high stakes, featuring Heads of State's cast Priyanka Chopra Jonas and John Cena
It can be difficult to make political rivalries, espionage, and high global stakes funny, but director Ilya Naishuller's Heads of State manages to strike a balance. And Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who plays an MI6 agent tasked with protecting top politicians in the film, is thrilled at the response that the film has received since it dropped online on Wednesday. Priyanka Chopra Jonas and John Cena The actor — joined by her co-star John Cena — speaks to us in London about shooting the action comedy, playing a strong female character in a male-dominated genre, and the OTT vs theatre debate. Excerpts: What was it about the film's script that got you excited? Did it take some deliberation or was it an instant 'yes'? Priyanka: I loved Ilya's films Hardcore Henry (2015) and Nobody (2021), so it was a no-brainer for me. I read [the script] and it was laugh-out-loud funny. Plus, my character was telling off these big, powerful men, so I had a lot of reasons to do it (laughs). We got to shoot in London and the South of France; filming with John and Idris (Elba, actor) was a lot of fun. John: It was an easy yes. Sometimes, when making decisions, we ask ourselves, 'What can go wrong?' With [this film], I asked myself, 'What's gonna go right?' I'm glad I did, because the enthusiasm was shared by everybody in the movie, both in the front of and behind the camera. That really made for a heck of a movie. There's been ongoing chatter about the OTT space versus theatrical releases in India. Since your film dropped on Prime Video on Wednesday, do you think people will stop going to theatres elsewhere in the world, too? Priyanka: I just think that they are two different mediums of entertainment. I do think that streaming has brought a diversity of talents in front of and behind the camera, especially in the Indian film industry. I think it's an evolving thing; but the communal experience and collective joy of watching something in theatres is never going to go away. John, you're loved as both a wrestler and an actor, and have a huge fan following in India. Are there any plans to work in Indian movies in the future? John: I just haven't got that offer yet. I don't necessarily control my own destiny; the best I can do is react to opportunities that are put my way. What I can tell you matter-of-factly is, I've been aware of the passion for WWE in India for over 20 years now. I would not be where I'm at today without the investment and the passion of the audience in India. I'm very grateful for that. Why should people watch Heads Of State? Priyanka: It's a really fun movie and my favourite genre — it makes you laugh, hold onto your seat, and gets you excited. There's fun jokes, big explosions and just a great experience. I think it's one of those movies which you watch with your family and friends for the collective experience.


Time of India
24 minutes ago
- Time of India
Director Suresha voices concern over social media influence on youth
Mysuru: Kannada film director B Suresha on Thursday expressed serious concern that excessive use of social media has caused not only distress among youths but also contributed to anxiety and low self-esteem. He was speaking after inaugurating a lecture on cinematography and photography organised by the department of Kannada and culture at Ravivarma School of Arts in the city. He said as India is gifted with a talented youth population, migrating to cities, towns, and other foreign countries in search of jobs and other greener pastures has raised a lot of hopes about their future. "Indian students were the highest in obtaining scholarships for students in the United Kingdom according to 2022-23 reports. On the other side, a grim situation like a large number of youths working for meagre Rs 400 daily wages exist in the country," he said. He also highlighted the importance of studying cinematography and photography as it helps reflect and mirror society, and also showcase India's vibrant life system in cinema. "As social media platforms exacerbate depression, youths exposed to cyberbullying and unrealistic portrayals of life, there is an urgent need to bring out youths nowadays from digital distress," he said. Theatre activist R Rashmi, Ravivarma School of Arts principal Shivakumar Kesaramadu, and senior cinematographer MR Manjunath were present.


Time of India
25 minutes ago
- Time of India
Foodies to savour regional flavours at street food fest
Patna: Street food enthusiasts in Patna are in for a culinary treat as a restaurant in a prominent hotel near Gandhi Maidan is set to host the 'Grand Street Eats Food Festival', celebrating the rich diversity of Indian street food. The festival will run daily from July 5 to July 13, welcoming visitors between 1pm and 11pm. Designed to evoke the vibrant atmosphere of India's street food culture, the festival will feature a wide array of regional delicacies. From north India's matar kulcha, bhalla papdi chaat and dahi gujiya to eastern favourites like litti-chokha and spicy aloo-baingan chokha, the offerings promise something for every palate. Adding to the culinary journey, the menu includes Shegaon kachori from Maharashtra and chowmein dosa from the south. Mumbai's coastal flavours will be on full display with dishes like Kolivade-style fried fish, prawns, and the iconic rose omelette. The venue will be transformed into a vibrant, festive setting, replicating the lively alleys of India's food streets. Guests can expect interactive food stalls, traditional décor, themed lighting, and the nostalgic backdrop of retro Bollywood music. "Our aim is not just to serve food but to offer an immersive journey," said Apoorv Gaur, general manager of the hotel. "We want every guest to feel as though they are walking through the streets of India, tasting regional specialities, and sharing laughter, stories and memories – all through a single plate."