Renowned stalwarts of Indian cinema, Rani Mukerji and Karan Johar, are poised to grace the esteemed Australian Parliament House with their keynote speeches on August 13th, paving the way for the grand opening of the 15th Annual Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) on August 15th. This invitation resonates deeply, following the recent ratification of a landmark co-production treaty between India and Australia, symbolizing a new era of artistic collaboration.
Mukerji, a versatile icon whose performances in films like "Black," "Hichki," and "Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway" have endeared her to Bollywood audiences since the late 90s, stands as a testament to the artistry and depth of Indian cinema. Johar, whose directorial debut "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai," featuring Mukerji alongside Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Salman Khan, became an instant classic in 1998, has since emerged as a towering figure in the industry, wielding immense influence as a director, producer, and media personality.
Speaking ahead of her address, Mukerji expressed her profound pride, stating, "It is an honor unparalleled to represent the vibrant Indian film community at the Australian Parliament House and to share the rich tapestry of cinematic heritage that we have woven for the world. This is a pivotal moment for our fraternity, and I am humbled to have the opportunity to illuminate the ever-strengthening cultural bonds between Australia and India, forged through the magic of cinema."
Their presence and words promise to ignite a spark of inspiration and understanding, bridging cultural divides and uniting hearts across continents through the universal language of film.
She elaborated, painting a vibrant picture, "The Indian cinematic landscape, a tapestry woven from the rich threads of Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Bengali, Assamese, Odia, and Hindi, among others, stands proudly at the vanguard of shaping global pop culture. Our talented artists and films have left an indelible mark worldwide, infusing joy and vibrant hues into the lives of countless viewers across the globe."
Johar expressed profound gratitude, his voice resonating with enthusiasm, "To be invited to address the esteemed Australian Parliament House is an honor beyond measure. I am elated to be a part of this historic juncture, celebrating the extraordinary odyssey of Indian cinema. It is astounding to witness the far-reaching journey of the narratives we, as an industry, weave. This moment serves as a testament to the ever-growing cultural influence of Indian cinema, and I am deeply grateful to the House and its esteemed members for this invitation, allowing me to represent the rich heritage of cinema and the art of storytelling."
The keynote address, anticipated with bated breath, is poised to draw a distinguished audience of parliamentarians, ministers, and other esteemed dignitaries.
IFFM festival director Mitu Bhowmik Lange declared with pride, "This marks a milestone year for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne as we celebrate our quinquennial jubilee. The presence of esteemed keynote speakers like Rani Mukherji and Karan Johar at the Australian Parliament House underscores the festival's burgeoning influence and recognition, a testament to the ever-growing appeal of Indian cinema on the global stage."
