From The Festival Director

Message From The Festival Director

It is with immense pride that I welcome you to the epic 15th edition of Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2024 - the biggest annual celebration of Indian cinema outside India!

Our theme this year, ‘All Our Voices’ shines a light on stories that center inclusivity, diversity, and the multiplicity of perspectives within society. This year’s lineup is a testament to the power of storytelling and creativity of filmmakers from India and the Indian Subcontinent! We have curated a diverse selection of films that span genres, cultures, and perspectives. From thought-provoking documentaries to touching narratives and imaginative shorts, each film has been chosen for its unique voice and its ability to move, inspire, and spark new ideas.

IFFM strives to bring together established artists and emerging talents to share their work and connect with audiences. This year is no exception. In addition to our film screenings, we have a series of enriching panel discussions and events, such as IFFM Baari, a creative hub for diverse creative leaders to engage with emerging voices, particularly from South Asian communities. We hope these interactions will provide valuable perspectives for both aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles alike. To put a special focus on regional cinema this year, we are thrilled to launch IFFM Regional Rhapsody to spotlight films and under-represented ones that bring their unique stories and voices to the forefront of our festival. As always, we are excited to welcome you to some of our most awaited events, the Remitly IFFM Dance Competition and the glamorous Awards Night. We also continue to showcase talented works from independent filmmakers in The IFFM Short Film Competition, fostering insightful conversations and meaningful connections.

This 15-year milestone, we believe, is a testament to our dedication to championing diverse voices and innovative storytelling from around the globe. This growth would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our passionate community and enthusiastic audiences, our talented filmmakers, most dedicated staff and volunteers, and generous sponsors. We are truly grateful for your continued enthusiasm and commitment.

See you at the festival!

Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM
IFFM Festival Director