Welcome to IFFM Chats – a dynamic series of talks and discussions that brings together the most influential and exciting personalities in Indian cinema. Our platform provides a unique opportunity for filmmakers, actors, and other industry professionals to share their insights, experiences, and perspectives with a wider audience.
This year, we welcome back esteemed journalist and critic Rajeev Masand to facilitate insightful and stimulating conversations with leaders in cinema.
Our talks delve deep into a broad spectrum of topics related to Indian and the subcontinent cinema, ranging from the art of storytelling and filmmaking techniques to the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a film enthusiast, our engaging sessions will leave you with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Are you ready for an unparalleled opportunity to engage with some of the most innovative and talented minds in the business? Come and discover the secrets of Indian cinema and gain a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving world of film.
IFFM Curtain Raiser
Thursday, 10th August, 2023
The Immigration Museum
Rani Mukerji Masterclass: An Extraordinary Journey of the Exceptionally Talented Actress
In conversation with the Jalsa team
On the eve of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, the iconic Rani Mukerji will guide you through an exclusive conversation on craft, characters and the power of cinema. From her early breakthroughs in acclaimed movies to her latest hit film Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, Rani Mukerji's illustrious career is filled with a myriad of remarkable cinematic achievements. In conversation with Rajeev Masand, this is an unmissable opportunity to meet the versatile and talented Rani Mukerji and deep dive into the worlds and characters she has inhabited in film.
6:00 pm | In Conversation with Rani Mukerji | 60 Minutes
Karan Johar: Celebrating 25 as a Filmmaker
In conversation with the Jalsa team
It's been 25 years since Karan Johar made his directorial debut with the iconic Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in 1998, and we’re thrilled to celebrate his career here in Melbourne. Having directed and/or produced some of the most influential Hindi films over the last three decades, Karan Johar will be here to share his invaluable insights. In conversation with Rajeev Masand, learn all about Karan Johar’s journey through the film industry over his lifetime, the joys, the challenges, the stories behind some of the most memorable moments in cinema and his latest film, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani.
7:30 pm | In Conversation with Karan Johar | 60 Minutes
Kartik Aaryan: From a Self-Made Actor to a Rising Global Superstar
In conversation with the Jalsa team
Have the exclusive opportunity to meet Kartik Aaryan and learn all about his journey from his early challenges and breakthroughs to becoming a sensation. From Pyaar Ka Punchnama in 2011 to his latest film Satyaprem Ki Katha, the charming, talented and highly sought-after actor continues to deliver hit after hit — a testament to his talent, craft and determination. In this unmissable event, Kartik Aaryan will share heartfelt anecdotes, insights into the defining moments that shaped him, and glimpses into what the future holds.
9:00 pm | In Conversation with Kartik Aaryan | 60 Minutes
Sunday, 13th August, 2023
Clemenger BBDO Auditorium, National Gallery of Victoria
In Conversation with Shabana Azmi
In conversation with the Jalsa team
Celebrate the illustrious career of Shabana Azmi in an insightful conversation unpacking her journey through over 160 films. Hear Shabana Azmi herself reflect on the fascinating, powerful and unconventional roles she has portrayed, and gain insights into the skills and experiences that have made her one of India's most acclaimed talents. This unmissable conversation with a legend in world cinema and an avid social activist will leave you with unparalleled industry insights and creative inspiration.
11:00 am | In Conversation with Shabana Azmi | 60 Minutes
Globalisation of South Indian Cinema with The Sita Ramam Team, Anjali Menon & Prithvi Konanur
In conversation with the Jalsa team
With the phenomenal success of films such as the Baahubali series, Sita Ramam and RRR, the rise of South Indian Cinema is making waves not only within India but globally. Dive into the contemporary landscape of South Indian cinema and unravel the secrets behind its appeal. Join the conversation with Wonder Women director Anjali Menon, Hadinelentu (Seventeeners) director Prithvi Konanur, and the team behind Sita Ramam, director Hanu Raghavapudi, and producers Swapna Dutt and Priyanka Dutt.
12:30 pm | The Sita Ramam Team | 60 Minutes
Rana Daggubati on Globalisation of South Indian Cinema
In conversation with the Jalsa team
With the phenomenal success of films such as the Baahubali series and RRR, the rise of South Indian Cinema is making waves not only within India but globally. Join Baahubali star Rana Daggubati as he dives into the contemporary landscape of South Indian cinema and unravels the secrets behind its appeal.
12:30 pm | In Conversation with Rana Daggubati | 60 Minutes
Bhumi Pednekar on Cinema’s Role in Sustainability and the Climate Crisis
In conversation with the Jalsa team
As filmmakers and creatives, what is our role in the climate crisis? How is cinema situating our place in the world, raising crucial awareness about the environment and inspiring action towards sustainable ways of living? Join the beloved and insightful actress and climate change advocate Bhumi Pednekar (Dum Laga Ke Haisha, Badhaai Do) as she delves into one of the greatest issues of our time.
2:00 pm | In Conversation with Bhumi Pednekar | 60 Minutes
The Darlings Team, Alicia Vrajlal & Dr Manjula O'Connor on Family Violence, Patriarchy and Empowerment
In conversation with the Jalsa team
Family violence is a global health and human rights issue — we all either know someone who has been a victim of family violence, or we ourselves have been impacted. The success of the powerful and thought provoking film Darlings subverted representations of gendered violence and oppression. Director Jasmeet K Reen and actor Vijay Varma from the Darlings team, Alicia Vrajlal, Journalist and Founder of Draw Your Box and Professor Manjula Datta O’Connor will sensitively approach this dark reality, unpack representations of domestic violence, women, and relationships on our screens, and what cinema can do to spark urgent conversations and contribute positively.
03:30 pm | The Darlings Team | 60 Minutes
Filmmakers’ Panel: Navigating Narratives that Challenge, Confront and Break Conventions
In conversation with the Jalsa team
How do filmmakers tackle stories that are complex and defy what is conventionally accepted to explore and talk about? Join acclaimed directors Anurag Kashyap (Kennedy), Aparna Purohit (Head of India Originals, Prime Video), Kanu Behl (Agra), Onir (Pine Cone) and Vikramaditya Motwane (Jubilee), for an insightful discussion. These filmmakers have created compelling narratives, working with difficult and arguably contentious subject matters. Unpack the development of daring stories and the challenges and value of creating space for less represented perspectives to create impactful cinematic experiences.
05:00 pm | The Director's Panel | 60 Minutes
Saturday, 19th August, 2023
Community Hall, National Gallery of Victoria
The My Melbourne Team on Authenticity, Belonging and Storytelling in Cinema
In conversation with the Jalsa team
Authenticity, Belonging and Storytelling with the My Melbourne Team
Gain exclusive insight into My Melbourne — an innovative upcoming anthology feature film in development, bridging India and Australia and pairing local emerging talent with prolific filmmakers from India. My Melbourne celebrates the true diversity of Melbourne, champions lived experience in the writing process, and digs deep into all the challenges of belonging, identity and connecting. With four key themes: Race, Gender, Sexuality and Disability, hear all about the process of working with these layered concepts and creating this film.
You’ll hear from mentor directors and key My Melbourne cast and crew.
12:00 pm | My Melbourne Team | 60 Minutes | Community Hall
The Changing Face of Sexuality in Indian Cinema
In conversation with the Jalsa team
From breaking taboos and challenging societal norms to the rise of diverse sexualities in Indian cinema, this groundbreaking conversation will delve into nuanced portrayals of sexuality and the dynamic shifts in culture and cinema. Hear all about the challenges, triumphs and hopes of diversifying representations of sexuality on screen. Join the conversation with the bold convention-breaking team behind closing night film Kennedy — Anurag Kashyap, Rahul Bhat and Sunny Leone; alongside Arjun Mathur and Anshuman Jha from IFFM’s centrepiece film Lord Curzon Ki Haveli and Varun Grover, the acclaimed writer/director behind All India Rank.
1:30 pm | 60 Minutes | Theatre, The Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia Federation Square
