IFFM Guests

Rajkumar Hirani

Rajkumar Hirani is one of India’s most respected and renowned filmmakers today, known for some of Indian cinema's most successful and path breaking films in recent times. A three-time National Award winner with a career spanning over two decades, Hirani has carved a niche for himself in Bollywood for creating films that blend humor, emotion, and social messages in an engaging manner while simultaneously becoming blockbuster hits worldwide.

His directorial debut "Munna Bhai M.B.B.S." (2003) became an instant, timeless classic. Starring Sanjay Dutt as a lovable goon who enrolls in medical school, the film was praised for its humor, heart, and poignant social commentary. It won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and the Filmfare Award for Best Film (Critics) and earned Hirani the Filmfare Award for Best Screenplay and his first nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Director.

In 2009, Hirani released "3 Idiots," a film that became one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of all time. Starring Aamir Khan, the film addressed the pressures of the Indian education system and was lauded for its narrative, performances, and impactful message. It won numerous awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Director. Hirani’s films often highlight themes of compassion, self-discovery, and social change, resonating deeply with viewers in India and beyond. "PK" (2014) again emerged as the highest-grossing Indian film of its time and "Sanju" (2018) based on the life of actor Sanjay Dutt released to critical and commercial success. Both films were nominated for Best Film and Best Director at the Filmfare Awards, with PK winning him the Best Screenplay. Domestically, both films are currently the fifth and seventh highest grossing Bollywood films of all time.

Rajkumar Hirani continues to be a significant figure in Bollywood, shaping the landscape of contemporary Indian cinema with his impactful storytelling and cinematic craftsmanship.

We are so excited to have him at IFFM 2024!