Mumbai: This Independence Day, senior Bollywood actor, Aamir Khan will be hoisting the Indian national flag at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) on its 2025 edition.
IIFM’s annual flag hoisting ceremony is one of the most cherished events as it brings together Indian and International artists and filmmakers to honour Indian cinema on a foreign land.
Reflecting on the emotional significance of the tradition, Festival Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange said, “The flag hoisting ceremony at IFFM is more than just a formal tradition; it’s a deeply emotional and unifying experience. Seeing the Tiranga unfurl on foreign soil, surrounded by artists, filmmakers, and members of the Indian and Australian communities, fills our hearts with pride.”
He added, “Having Aamir Khan, whose voice, vision and cinema have had a profound impact on generations of film lovers not just in India but globally, lead this moment is truly a rare honour. His presence represents the strength and integrity of Indian storytelling and the values we stand for at IFFM, equality and unity in diversity. We look forward to welcoming audiences from all walks of life to witness this inspiring moment.”
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, supported by the Government of Victoria, is the largest celebration of Indian cinema abroad.
The IIFM 2025 edition will screen nearly 75 films, highlighting “themes of inclusivity, spanning gender, sexuality, race, disability, and women’s representation.”
The LGBTQ Pride Night, one of the most anticipated events of the festival, will be held on August 22.
On this day, the restored version of ‘Badnam Basti’ (1971), India’s first gay film, directed by Prem Kapoor, will be screened.
Acclaimed Indian actress Tillotama Shome’s Bengali film ‘Baksho Bondi’, will be the opening film of the festival.
Aamir’s presence at the flag hoisting ceremony will add to the celebratory spirit this year.