Bollywood stars Karan Johar and Rani Mukerji met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday at the Australian Parliament House, marking a significant moment in celebrating the legacy and diversity of Indian cinema. The duo’s visit was part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), one of the largest Indian film festivals outside of India, which has been running for 15 years.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took to Instagram to share a selfie with Rani and Karan, captioning it: “Rani Mukerji and @karanjohar are in Canberra promoting the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. It’s one of the largest Indian film festivals outside of India, and it’s been running for 15 years. A testament to Australia’s relationship with India and the vibrancy of the Indian-Australian community.”
During the visit, Rani Mukerji also launched a commemorative Yash Chopra stamp at the Australian Parliament House to honor 50 years of Yash Raj Films (YRF). The unveiling ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries, Members of Parliament, and various ministers, highlighting the global impact and cultural significance of Indian cinema.
Expressing her excitement, Rani Mukerji said, “I’m truly honoured and humbled to be a part of this momentous occasion of the launch of legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra’s commemorative stamp at the Australian Parliament House! This is not only a celebration of Yash Chopra and YRF’s rich and impactful 50-year-old legacy of shaping pop culture the world over but also of the Indian film industry that has entertained countless people through the power of cinema. The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) has been a catalyst for bringing India and Australia closer to each other by championing cultural and creative ties for 15 years now.”
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange shared her thoughts on the milestone event, adding, “This is a landmark year for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne as we celebrate our 15th year. And what a blessing for us to share this special evening, having Rani Mukerji unveil the Late Yash ji’s stamp. His contribution to Indian cinema has influenced generations and will continue to do so for times to come. It is our absolute honour to have Rani with us here on this special landmark day to honour his legacy.”
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2024 will continue until August 25, 2024, showcasing the rich cultural ties between India and Australia through the medium of cinema.
