Global superstar Aamir Khan will headline the 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne as official chief guest.
The celebrated actor, filmmaker and cultural icon will attend the festival from 14-24 August, with organisers planning a special retrospective celebrating his extraordinary contributions to Indian cinema. The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will culminate Khan’s appearance with a spotlight event on his latest film, Sitaare Zameen Par.
Khan’s acclaimed career spans over four decades and has delivered some of Indian cinema’s most influential works including Taare Zameen Par, Dangal, Lagaan, PK and Secret Superstar. His latest film, Sitaare Zameen Par, continues this legacy with the story of a basketball coach tasked with community service who finds purpose mentoring a team of neurodivergent adults.
Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
- Where: Melbourne (venues to be announced)
- When: 14-24 August
- Features: Special retrospective, screening of Sitaare Zameen Par
- Live conversation: Aamir Khan, director RS Prasanna, and Aparna Purohit
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The festival will honour Khan’s artistic impact with a specially curated selection of films that reflect his bold, socially conscious storytelling. A highlight of the retrospective will be a screening of Sitaare Zameen Par, followed by a live conversation with Khan, director RS Prasanna, and Aparna Purohit, CEO of Aamir Khan Films.
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM described Khan as not just a cinematic legend but someone whose work has always reflected sensitivity, depth, and a fearless commitment to storytelling. The festival celebrates Khan as an artist who has consistently used cinema as a force for social change.
Khan’s landmark film Lagaan was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 74th Academy Awards, positioning him as a pioneer in taking Indian cinema to global audiences. His deeply personal film Taare Zameen Par sparked national and international dialogue around inclusive education and became a cult classic across Asia.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan highlighted Khan as not just an icon for millions but a strong voice for the values of equality and inclusivity. The Victorian government continues to support the festival, which presents a packed programme of screenings and special events while attracting global stars.
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