IFFM 2026 brought star power, cultural pride and powerful storytelling to Melbourne. Here are the defining moments from a festival that celebrated Indian cinema in all its diversity.
Bipartisan Funding Pledges Secure IFFM’s Future
Victoria’s major political parties have pledged significant funding to support the future of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). Labor has committed $600,000 over two years to continue the festival and expand regional screenings in Geelong, Bendigo and Shepparton. The Victorian Liberal and Nationals Coalition has offered $2.8 million over four years, providing $700,000 annually to support the festival’s growth, attract international talent and strengthen cultural and screen-industry ties between Victoria and India. Both commitments recognise IFFM’s cultural, economic and tourism value, although delivery depends on the outcome of the Victorian election.
Rani Mukerji Honoured for Three Decades of Excellence
Bollywood star Rani Mukerji received a Special Citation for Excellence in Acting at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2026, celebrating her remarkable 30-year contribution to Indian cinema. The honour recognised her memorable performances, enduring connection with audiences and role in bringing Indian stories to the global stage. From Black and Hum Tum to Mardaani and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, Mukerji’s career has been distinguished by powerful portrayals of women marked by strength, courage and emotional depth.
Rekha Hoists Indian Flag at Federation Square
Bollywood icon Rekha led India’s Independence Day celebrations at Melbourne’s Federation Square during the 2026 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. Joined by actor Pankaj Tripathi, members of the Indian diaspora, Australian dignitaries and film personalities, she hoisted the Tricolour before singing Jana Gana Mana with the gathering.
Rekha’s visit also celebrated her remarkable cinematic legacy. She received IFFM’s Excellence in Cinema Award, while her acclaimed 1981 classic Umrao Jaan, which earned her the National Film Award for Best Actress, was screened during the festival.
Double Honour for Rishab Shetty at IFFM 2026
Actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty received the Best Director Award for Kantara: Chapter 1 and the Leadership in Cinema Award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2026. The recognition celebrated his creative vision and contribution to Kannada cinema.
Shetty dedicated the honours to his filmmaking team, Kannada cinema and the cultural traditions that inspire his stories. A prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, the film explores the origins of Daiva worship in Tulunadu while depicting the struggle to protect its forest, tribal communities and spiritual heritage.
Dulquer Salmaan Shines at IFFM 2026
Dulquer Salmaan was among the major highlights of IFFM 2026, winning Best Actor for his acclaimed performance in Kaantha. His production Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra also received the Best Film award, strengthening his reputation as both an accomplished performer and an ambitious producer. Salmaan further surprised fans by making an unannounced appearance during the Independence Day celebrations and unveiling the first-look teaser of his new film I’m Game, drawing an enthusiastic response from the crowd.
Mitu Bhowmick Lange: Connecting Cultures Through Cinema
IFFM Founder and Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM has transformed the festival into one of the world’s leading celebrations of Indian and South Asian cinema. The 2026 program presented more than 130 films across 35 languages, championing diversity, inclusion and emerging storytellers under the theme Shared Humanity, Shared Stories.
“At IFFM, we believe that great storytelling transcends language, geography and identity,” Lange said. She described cinema as a powerful bridge between cultures, capable of encouraging empathy, expanding perspectives and reminding audiences of the humanity that unites them.
Together, these highlights made IFFM 2026 a celebration not only of cinematic excellence, but also of identity, inclusion and shared humanity. The festival once again demonstrated the remarkable power of storytelling to cross borders, connect communities and bring India and Australia closer together.
- G’day India
