July 9, 2025: Few filmmakers have captured the complexities of love, disillusionment, and artistic struggle as poignantly as Guru Dutt. More than 60 years after his passing, the legendary actor and director’s work continues to resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. To mark the 100th anniversary of his birth, the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) will pay tribute to Guru Dutt by hosting special screenings of two of his most iconic films — Pyaasa (1957) and Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959).
The festival, known for its curated celebration of Indian cinema’s golden era, expects to draw over 2,000 cinephiles from across Australia for this unique homage. Exact screening dates will be announced in early August.
Guru Dutt’s influence on Hindi cinema over his two-decade career is profound. His masterpieces, including Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960), and Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam (1962), remain touchstones for filmmakers and cinephiles alike.
Mitu Bhowmick Lange, director of IFFM, remarked, “Guru Dutt was far ahead of his time, both in cinematic technique and emotional storytelling. His films are not only classics but cultural treasures that capture the soul of Indian cinema. This tribute is our humble way of celebrating his genius and introducing his timeless works to new audiences globally.”
The retrospective is set to reinforce Guru Dutt’s enduring legacy and inspire a new generation of filmmakers and viewers.