Melbourne is set to roll out the red carpet this August when Bollywood icon Aamir Khan attends the 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) as Chief Guest.
Celebrating over forty years of trailblazing cinema, Khan will be feted with a specially curated retrospective that underscores his reputation for bold, socially conscious storytelling.
A Retrospective of Impactful Cinema
IFFM 2025 will trace Khan’s remarkable journey from his breakthrough role in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) to blockbuster hits like Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, Dangal and PK.
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange explained the choice: “Aamir Khan is not just a cinematic legend but also someone whose work has always reflected sensitivity, depth, and a fearless commitment to storytelling.
“His films have sparked national conversations on education, gender equality and disability—values that resonate strongly with our audiences here in Victoria.”
The retrospective culminates in a spotlight on Khan’s latest film, Sitaare Zameen Par, which tells the story of a sports coach serving community service hours at a centre for neurodivergent adults. Acclaimed for its heartfelt portrayal of inclusion and empowerment, the film has already won praise across India for its compassionate approach.
In Conversation with the Creators
Following the screening of Sitaare Zameen Par on 18 August, Khan will join director R. S. Prasanna and Aparna Purohit, CEO of Aamir Khan Films, for a live Q&A. Audiences will gain rare insight into the film’s development, from conception to casting and the challenges of representing neurodivergence on screen.
“With Sitaare Zameen Par, we’ve tried to tell a story that embraces inclusivity and neuro-divergence with sensitivity and heart,” Khan said ahead of his trip.
“I’m excited to share this journey with Melbourne and shine a light on the stories that matter.”
A Festival Embracing Diversity
Premier Jacinta Allan lauded Khan’s appointment as Chief Guest, noting it underscored Victoria’s commitment to cultural diversity.
“We’re proud to welcome one of India’s most loved and respected actors—and celebrate his body of work,” Allan said.
“Aamir Khan is an icon for millions and a strong voice for the values of equality and inclusivity that we treasure here in Victoria.”
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks emphasised IFFM’s place on the state’s cultural calendar, pointing to its role in bringing global talent to Melbourne and showcasing the depth of contemporary Indian cinema.
More Than a Film Festival
Beyond the retrospective, IFFM 2025 (running 14–24 August) offers a dynamic program: new feature and short films, panel discussions on pan-Asian collaborations, masterclasses with industry veterans, and cultural events across the CBD. Highlights include a screening of Dangal at the open-air Princess Theatre lawn and a symposium on “Cinema and Social Change” featuring Australian and Indian filmmakers.
For first-time attendees and seasoned cinephiles alike, Khan’s presence promises to be a festival high point. Whether you’re drawn by his performance in Taare Zameen Par—a film that transformed public debate on special needs education—or intrigued by the uplifting narrative of Sitaare Zameen Par, IFFM 2025 is poised to be an unmissable celebration of Indian cinema’s past, present and future.
Tickets and Information
All festival passes and event tickets are available at iffm.com.au. Early-bird packages sell out quickly—Melburnians are encouraged to secure their seats soon.
With Aamir Khan at its helm, the 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne promises not just a showcase of cinematic excellence, but a platform for dialogue, inspiration and cross-cultural connection. Mark your calendars for August’s biggest screen event!
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