Bollywood legend Aamir Khan formally launched the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 by igniting the traditional ceremonial lamp, kicking off the eagerly awaited 11-day fiesta of Indian movies. The festival, which takes place between August 14 and August 24, got underway with a star-studded grand opening ceremony brimming with warmth, culture, and cinematic pride.
A Heartfelt Moment from Aamir Khan
In inaugurating the festival, Aamir thanked and welcomed the opportunity of being a part of IFFM. “It is a privilege to open the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. It’s wonderful to be here celebrating film that unites us all,” he stated. The actor also revealed that he had always dreamed of coming to the festival, commenting, “All my colleagues always talked about the warmth of IFFM, and I can now indeed feel it coming my way.”
Following Indian tradition even on foreign land, Aamir took off his shoes before lighting the ritual lamp, a gesture that was appreciated by everyone.
Opening Night Film: Baksho Bondi
Aamir also presented the Opening Night Film, Baksho Bondi, and the film’s cast and crew. Guests at the event were well-known actors Tillotama Shome and Jim Sarbh, who is also the producer of the film, and Tanushree Das.
IFFM Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange called the film “bold and moving,” and said it represents the type of storytelling IFFM seeks to support.
A Message of Unity Through Cinema
Aamir ended by wishing his best: “I wish the team of Baksho Bondi and all the other movies at the festival all the very best. I hope the Melbourne audiences will enjoy these movies and the magic of cinema.”
