MELBOURNE: The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) is proud to announce that celebrated actor, filmmaker and humanitarian Aamir Khan will attend the 2025 edition of the Festival as its official Chief Guest, leading a 10-day celebration of cinema, culture and community from 14–24 August 2025.
A global figure synonymous with socially engaged storytelling and cinematic excellence, Aamir Khan’s presence marks a historic milestone for IFFM and an extraordinary opportunity for Australian audiences to engage with one of India’s most influential artists.
This year’s Festival will include a specially curated retrospective honouring Khan’s extraordinary four-decade career, showcasing landmark films that have defined Indian cinema globally. A centrepiece of this tribute will be the screening of his latest film, Sitaare Zameen Par, followed by an in-conversation event with Aamir Khan, director RS Prasanna, and Aparna Purohit, CEO of Aamir Khan Films, offering rare insight into the making of this inclusive and heartfelt story.
Sitaare Zameen Par follows a basketball coach sentenced to community service who finds unexpected meaning mentoring a team of neurodivergent adults. The film has been widely acclaimed for its warmth, humanity and celebration of difference — extending Khan’s legacy of storytelling that uplifts and challenges.
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange said:
“Aamir Khan is not just a cinematic legend but a visionary whose work reflects empathy, courage, and creative integrity. His films have shaped public consciousness and set new benchmarks for artistic excellence. We are truly honoured to welcome him to Melbourne — his presence will elevate this year’s festival to new heights.”
Aamir Khan expressed his excitement:
“I am humbled and delighted to be part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. It is a platform that embraces the diversity and richness of Indian cinema. I look forward to sharing stories, connecting with audiences, and shining a light on inclusive narratives through Sitaare Zameen Par. It is a film close to my heart — about acceptance, connection and unlearning bias. I cannot wait to experience the love and energy of Melbourne.”
The Honourable Jacinta Allan MP, Premier of Victoria, added:
“There is something for all families to enjoy at IFFM. This year, Victoria is so proud to welcome one of India’s most beloved and respected actors — Aamir Khan. He stands for the values of inclusion and equality that we hold dear in our state.”
Colin Brooks, Minister for Creative Industries, said:
“IFFM continues to deliver world-class programming and community celebration. We are proud to support an event that brings global stars like Aamir Khan to our doorstep, showcasing the best of screen storytelling and cultural exchange.”
A little bit about Aamir Khan:
Aamir Khan is one of Indian cinema’s most iconic and transformative figures. With a career spanning over 30 years, he has earned global acclaim for his socially conscious and genre-defying work. From his early success with Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak to the Oscar-nominated Lagaan, feminist epic Dangal, and educational satire 3 Idiots, Khan has continually challenged norms while achieving box-office success across continents.
A TIME100 honouree, Khan directed and starred in Taare Zameen Par, a groundbreaking film on learning disabilities, which sparked nationwide policy reforms and became a cult classic in Asia and the Middle East. His upcoming film, Sitaare Zameen Par, builds on this legacy, advocating for inclusion through a moving, joyful narrative.
Beyond cinema, Khan's impact extends through his television series Satyamev Jayate, which tackled pressing social issues, and through the Paani Foundation, which promotes water conservation and climate resilience in India.
Through his banner Aamir Khan Productions, he has produced critically and commercially successful films such as Peepli Live, Delhi Belly, Secret Superstar, and Laapataa Ladies, the latter selected as India’s official submission to the 97th Academy Awards.
Aamir Khan’s career spans over 36 years, beginning with his breakout leading role in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak in 1988. However, he made his first on-screen appearance as a child actor in Yaadon Ki Baaraat in 1973, which brings his overall cinematic involvement to over 50 years.
IFFM 2025 promises a dynamic program of film screenings, panels, masterclasses, and cultural events. Aamir Khan’s retrospective will be one of the most anticipated highlights.
For the full program and ticket information, visit: www.iffm.com.au
