INDIAN FILM LEGEND TO APPEAR AT FESTIVAL

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne has confirmed the attendance of India’s most celebrated movie star, Amitabh Bachchan, who has been announced as the special guest of the festival.

The festival takes place from May 3-22 and will feature a retrospective tribute screening at Federation Square of all of Bachnan’s films, aimed at honouring the decorated film star for his contribution to the Indian film industry.

IFFM festival director Mitu Bhowmick Lange spoke in glowing terms of what Bachnan’s presence at this year’s festival would mean for both Indian film enthusiasts and the community.

“For over four decades his ground-breaking roles have nourished a billion souls and 8.5 million online followers will all be reading about his visit,” he said.

“There is no greater way to build the bridges between our two cultures.”

The festival was established in 2012 as an initiative of the Victorian Government and Minister for Tourism and Major Events Louise Asher said the attendance of Bachnan would only enhance the global appeal of Victoria.

“Securing international film stars of such high esteem is a great coup for Victoria and confirms the strength of the relationship between Victoria and India.”

Bachnan will also be honoured with IFFM’s International Screen Icon award, to be presented by the Victorian Government, and the Ambassador of Goodwill award from the vice chancellor of LaTrobe University during his stay in Melbourne.

Bachnan, the undisputed “Godfather of Indian Cinema”, will be officially closing the festival on the May 22 at the screening of his ground-breaking new movie Deewar, which will be presented at Hoyts Central.

For more information and bookings visit www.iffm.com.au