The 15th annual Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) is excited to announce that early bird tickets are now on sale for the famous annual IFFM Awards Night, held at the Palais Theatre on 16 August 2024.

The Awards Night is always a coveted date on the events calendar, where audiences can step into the world ofBollywood glitz and glamour for an unforgettable night. The spectacular celebration is graced by India's brightest luminaries, acclaimed filmmakers, and a dazzling array of celebrities. IFFM’s fabulous Awards Night will highlight some of the greatest films in the business, from compelling stories to striking cinematography, bringing the spirit of Bollywood to Melbourne.

The star-studded event will see filmmakers honoured with seven award categories. The gala will showcase captivating dance routines and musical presentations, highlighted by stunning performances from local artists.

Tickets to the prestigious Awards Night go on sale 10th May at 9AM AEST on ticketmaster.com with a 20% off early-bird ticket price for those who get in quickly.

IFFM is also thrilled to announce that entries to the IFFM Short Film Competition are also now open. The
competition is themed ‘All Our Voices’ to celebrate the diverse voices shaping our world, aligning with the
Festival’s commitment to inclusivity. The theme ‘All Our Voices’ suggests a focus on inclusivity, diversity, and the multiplicity of perspectives within society. It encourages filmmakers to explore stories and narratives that amplify voices that are often marginalized or unheard. This theme encourages filmmakers to delve into issues such as social justice, equality, cultural diversity, or personal expression.

The Festival invites all storytellers and filmmakers to showcase their talent and unique voices on screen.
Filmmakers can submit their film via FilmFreeway by the deadline on 15 June 2024. The IFFM programming team will shortlist the entries and the winner will be chosen by an esteemed panel of judges. The lucky winner of the IFFM Short Film Competition will be announced at the Awards Night and will receive a special plaque, medal, and exciting prize to be announced shortly.

Entries for IFFM Dance Competition are now open, the highly anticipated IFFM Dance Competition is happening on the 17th of August. Whether you're a solo dancer, part of a duo, or have a crew ready to set the stage on fire, this is your chance to shine. Show off your style, creativity, and passion for dance as you compete for the title and amazing prizes. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this exciting event where talent takes centre stage.

Register now and let your dance speak louder than your words!

Festival Director, Mitu Bhowmick said: “The IFFM Awards Night is always a special celebration of the greatest stories in Indian cinema. This year we celebrate our 15th year and can’t wait for everyone to
come together for a fabulous night.”

IFFM 2024 will open on August 15, and will feature all the festival favourites including the Indian Independence Day Celebrations (flag hoisting), IFFM Opening Night, IFFM Awards night, IFFM Dance
Competition, IFFM Bari, IFFM special screening, IFFM Chats and IFFM Closing Night. More exciting updates will be announced in the coming months.

Background
IFFM is the Southern Hemisphere's largest annual celebration of Indian cinema; a nine-day extravaganza of
Indian film and culture, featuring some of India’s biggest sporting and screen superstars. In 2024, IFFM will
present over 120 films in more than 20 languages, including 100 Australian Premieres, braiding together South Asian stories from across the globe.

Established in 2010 by director Mitu Bhowmick Lange (Mind Blowing Films), the festival consistently strives to program films that provide a robust forum for conversation and that enhance not only India’s rich storytelling tradition, but also looks to challenge people’s notions of India.

Celebrating the rich and diverse universe of Indian film culture, IFFM hosts celebrities, trailblazers, and disruptors. From the high glamour of the Awards night at Hamer Hall Melbourne with the red carpet and visiting stars, to the new My Melbourne film series, IFFM truly speaks to a wide audience of moviegoers.

www.iffm.com.au

For media enquiries please contact Payal Lakhotia:
E: payal@mindblowingfilms.com M 0468 777 012