IFFM 2026: A Spectacular Start to the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne; Dulquer Salmaan and Star Cast
Photos credit : Social media/Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
The 17th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026 has kicked off to a spectacular start, generating immense excitement among the Malayalee diaspora and cinema enthusiasts across Australia. A massive line-up of stars, including beloved Malayalam actor Dulquer Salmaan, is attending the festival in Melbourne this year. Alongside film screenings, this year’s film festival will feature numerous cultural programs.
Star Power in Melbourne
Backed by the Victorian Government, this year’s IFFM is running from August 13 to 23. Dulquer Salmaan, Kantara star Rishab Shetty, and Vijay Varma attended the press conference held today.
The grand awards night was staged at the Palais Theatre in St Kilda. Prominent figures from both the Bollywood and South Indian film industries attended the ceremony.
A Massive Reception for Malayalam Films
The Melbourne event is the largest Indian film festival held outside of India. Over 130 films, including Malayalam entries, will be screened at this edition of the festival.
Visiting Australia for the first time, Dulquer Salmaan spoke eloquently at the event about the growing global acceptance of Indian cinema. His film, Lokah, is also a major centre of attention at the festival.
A Golden Opportunity for Expats
Beyond Bollywood stars, regional language features and independent films will add to the festival’s prestige. La Trobe University will honour Bollywood actor Rani Mukerji with an honorary doctorate.
Additionally, Rishab Shetty will be presented with the ‘Leadership in Cinema’ award for his excellence in the film industry. Outside of Melbourne, festival events will also take place in regional cities such as Geelong and Bendigo.
What are your thoughts on the Malayalam films being screened at this film festival in Melbourne? Which movie are you looking forward to the most? Share your opinions.
