Melbourne’s vibrant Indian-Australian community is set to take centre stage again as celebrated filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani joins Shoojit Sircar, Anjali Menon and returning director Onir for the second instalment of the acclaimed Indian-Australian anthology My Melbourne.
Produced by local outfit Mind Blowing Films and presented by the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the project celebrates the city’s multicultural character and deepens creative ties between Australia and India.
Following the landmark success of the first edition in March 2025, which united Rima Das, Onir, Imtiaz Ali and Kabir Khan. Screened across both countries, that first edition explored themes of identity, gender, race, sexuality and disability, earning critical praise and securing the best film award at the UK Asian Film Festival.
Now, organisers have officially confirmed a new quartet of directors to craft fresh vignettes that reflect on life in Melbourne through an Indian-Australian lens.
“The success of My Melbourne has been overwhelming and deeply fulfilling,” said Mitu Bhowmick Lange, CEO of Mind Blowing Films.
“It has proven that authentic storytelling can transcend borders.
We are honoured to have some of Indian cinema’s most acclaimed voices collaborate with emerging creatives from under-represented communities here in Melbourne”
she added.
Joining the slate are Rajkumar Hirani, Anjali Menon, Shoojit Sircar and returning director Onir.
Hirani, whose films in India often blend humour with social commentary, said he was drawn to the anthology’s cross-cultural mission.
“I am truly excited to be part of a project that uses cinema to explore diverse human experiences while connecting two vibrant cultures,” he said.
“I am truly excited to be part of a project that uses cinema to explore diverse human experiences while connecting two vibrant cultures.
My Melbourne offers a rare opportunity to tell a story that is intimate, universal, and culturally resonant.”
Anjali Menon, known for her sensitive character studies, added that the anthology’s focus on empathy and inclusion aligned with her storytelling ethos.
Menon said, “I’m thrilled to collaborate on this journey of storytelling across continents.”
“The themes and intention behind My Melbourne align deeply with the kind of stories I love to tell — ones that build empathy and bring people closer.”
Shoojit Sircar, whose narrative films frequently address social themes, said, “I’m grateful to be part of this cross-cultural cinematic dialogue.”
“Storytelling knows no boundaries. My Melbourne is a meaningful initiative that reminds us how stories rooted in local contexts can have global significance.
And Onir, whose vignette in the first instalment was widely praised, said: Onir, returning from the first edition, said the sequel offered ‘an opportunity to work with new themes and voices while continuing a journey I deeply believe in”.
“Coming back for the second chapter of My Melbourne is like returning to a story that’s still unfolding.
The opportunity to work with new themes and voices, while continuing a journey I deeply believe in, is truly rewarding.”
Ms Lange is particularly keen to involve Indian-Australian writers, actors and technicians from Melbourne’s growing creative community. Expressions of interest open on July 15 via the IFFM website, offering a unique chance for local talent to work alongside these high-profile directors.
By foregrounding Melbourne’s diverse stories and strengthening industry partnerships, My Melbourne’s second chapter promises to reinforce the city’s role as a cultural bridge between India and Australia. For more information or to register interest, visit www.iffm.com.au.
Critics believe that it will deepen Melbourne’s role as a creative bridge between India and Australia, showcasing culturally rich narratives that reflect the city’s vibrant diaspora.
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