In a moment that perfectly captured the cultural fusion between India and Australia, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with Bollywood heavyweights Karan Johar and Rani Mukerji at the ongoing Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). The meeting wasn't just a diplomatic gesture—it was a celebration of Indian cinema's legacy and its global impact.
Rani Mukerji, decked out in an elegant off-white saree, marked a significant milestone by launching a commemorative Yash Chopra stamp at the Australian Parliament. The stamp honours 50 years of Yash Raj Films, a studio synonymous with shaping the landscape of Indian cinema. Karan Johar, sharp in his suit, joined Rani in delivering a speech at the Parliament in Canberra, further strengthening the cultural ties between the two nations.
But it wasn’t just speeches and formalities that made headlines. The real showstopper was when PM Albanese, alongside Minister Tim Watts and IFFM Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange, captured the moment with a beaming selfie featuring the Bollywood icons. The joyous snapshot, taken at the Australian Parliament House, quickly became a symbol of the event’s success.
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.”
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange echoed Rani’s sentiments, 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. This is an iconic moment for us because Yash Ji was our first festival patron and a huge support system. The launch of his stamp is us dedicating the 15th year to him with this commemorative stamp.”
As the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne gears up for its 15th annual celebration, starting August 15, this event has already set the tone for what promises to be a vibrant celebration of Indian cinema's enduring influence on the world stage.