Indian film stars Rani Mukerji and Karan Johar are scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Australian Parliament House on August 13. The event precedes the 15th annual Melbourne Indian Film Festival, which begins on August 15.
This invitation comes on the heels of the recently ratified co-production treaty between India and Australia. Mukherjee and Johar will speak about the power of cinema to bridge cultures and unite audiences across geographical boundaries.
Known for her versatile performances in films such as Black, Hichki and Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, Mukherjee has been a prominent figure in Bollywood since the late 1990s. Johar, who made his directorial debut with the 1998 blockbuster Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, starring Mukherjee, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Salman Khan, has since become one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema, as a director, producer and media personality.
“I am proud to represent the Indian film community at Parliament House and speak about the rich history of cinema that we have brought to the world,” said Mukherjee. “This is an important moment for our community and it will be a pleasure to speak about the growing cultural ties between Australia and India through cinema.”
“Indian cinema, comprising Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Bengali, Assamese, Odia, Hindi and others, is now at the forefront of shaping popular culture across the world with our talent and films leaving a global footprint. Our films bring so much joy to the world and add so much colour to people’s lives,” she added.
“I am deeply honoured to be invited to speak at the Australian Parliament House. I am delighted to be part of this historic event and celebrate the incredible journey of Indian cinema,” said Johar.
“It is amazing to see the reach of the stories we create as an industry, and this moment is a testament to the growing cultural influence of Indian cinema. I am grateful to the Council and the Members of Parliament for extending this invitation and for having me represent the rich legacy of cinema and storytelling,” Johar added.
The keynote address is expected to attract members of parliament, ministers and other dignitaries.
“This is a special year for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne as we celebrate our 15th anniversary. Having Rani Mukherjee and Karan Johar as keynote speakers at the Australian Parliament House is a testament to the festival’s growing influence and recognition,” said Mitu Bhowmik Lang, Director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.
