GLOBAL ICONS RALLY BEHIND KIRAN RAO’S LOST LADIES ON ITS OSCARS JOURNEY
Lost Ladies, India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars, continues to garner international acclaim and support through a series of high-profile events and screenings. The film’s compelling narrative and artistic brilliance have captured the attention of global audiences and industry stalwarts alike, solidifying its place as a standout contender this awards season.
The campaign began on an elegant note with a reception at the prestigious Taj Buckingham Gate, hosted by Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, producer Kiran Rao, and business leader Jyoti Deshpande. The event brought together film enthusiasts, cultural influencers, and industry veterans to celebrate the film’s journey to representing India at the Academy Awards.
Building on this momentum, Lost Ladies was featured in a special screening at BAFTA’s Princess Anne Theatre. The evening included a Q&A session with Kiran Rao, moderated by esteemed film journalist Jordan Farley, offering insights into the film’s creation and its resonant themes of empowerment and resilience.
Further amplifying its global appeal, celebrated filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón, director of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, hosted an intimate screening at the Bulgari Hotel London. Following the screening, Cuarón moderated a dynamic discussion with Kiran Rao and producer Jyoti Deshpande, delving into the creative vision behind Lost Ladies and its cultural significance.
Rao has championed the film through strategic partnerships with influential organizations such as Women in Film & TV and Reclaim The Frame, underscoring its universal themes and sparking meaningful global conversations.
With endorsements from iconic figures like Alfonso Cuarón, Lost Ladies continues to shine on the international stage, building anticipation and momentum as it embarks on its journey through awards season.
BAFTA CAMPAIGN FOR LOST LADIES KICKS OFF WITH A STAR-STUDDED RECEPTION AND IN-PERSON SCREENINGS IN LONDON
The BAFTA campaign for Lost Ladies, India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars, began on a high note with an elegant reception held at the prestigious Taj Buckingham Gate. Last night, Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, celebrated producer Kiran Rao, and renowned business leader
Jyoti Deshpande hosted a reception in honour of Lost Ladies. The event brought together a dynamic mix of film enthusiasts, industry veterans, and cultural influencers, celebrating the film’s critical acclaim and its remarkable journey to representing India at the Academy Awards.
Kiran Rao has been championing Lost Ladies through a series of special in-person screenings, collaborating with esteemed film networks such as Women in Film & TV and Reclaim The Frame. These partnerships highlight the film’s resonant themes and its commitment to sparking global conversations.
With its powerful narrative and artistic brilliance, Lost Ladies continues to captivate audiences worldwide, setting the stage for a promising run this awards season.
My Melbourne at the 30th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF)
The 30th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) recently featured the journey of Melbourne brought to life on screen, as My Melbourne took center stage at the historic Nandan Film and Cultural Centre. The screening was a significant moment for both cities, as Melbourne and Kolkata share a unique and beautiful connection through trams, which was beautifully depicted in the film.
The experience was made even more special by a unique tram ride with the film’s directors, Imtiaz Ali, Onir, and Rima Das. The directors joined the audience and media on the tram, sharing stories from their journey of making My Melbourne.
The screening took place at Nandan-I, a renowned venue in Kolkata, known for its rich history and cultural significance. With a seating capacity of 960, the venue was completely sold out, showing the strong interest and enthusiasm for the film among the local audience.
Film Detail:
Producer: Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM Director: Imtiaz Ali,Kabir Khan ,Rima Das,Onir Cast:
Kat Stewart
Arushi Sharma
Arka Das
Brad Hodge
Setara Amiri
Ryanna Lawson
Synopsis: Themed around the four pillars of diversity—sexuality, gender, disability, and race— the anthology film “My Melbourne” features four unique diverse stories based on true incidents. Indraneel, a queer Indian man and his estranged father reunite in Melbourne to complete a ceremonial ritual, exploring their fraught relationship and the power of forgiveness amid grief. Newly married Sakshi and homeless Jules form an unlikely bond, navigating their struggles and finding connection despite their differences. Emma, a talented deaf dancer, grapples with self-doubt and discrimination until a chance encounter with another deaf dancer inspires her to embrace her uniqueness and find her inner strength. Setara, a 15-year-old Afghan girl rebuilding her life in Melbourne after fleeing the Taliban, finding her sense of belonging through cricket amid family tensions and past trauma.
For media enquiries please contact, Payal Lakhotia: payal@mindblowingfilms.com M 046 877 7012
Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 14 / 82 Acland Street, St Kilda, Victoria, 3182
Cast: Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Rakhee Gulzar and others
Synopsis: Karan Arjun (1995) is a Bollywood drama about two brothers, Karan and Arjun, who are brutally killed but reincarnated to avenge their deaths and reunite with their mother, Durga. Unaware of their past lives, they gradually uncover their shared destiny, confronting the villainous Thakur Durjan Singh. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, the film is a tale of family, fate, and revenge.
Synopsis: Squadron Leader Veer Pratap Singh is a rescue pilot with the Indian Air Force, who risks his own life to save the lives of others. One day, on duty, he comes across a stranded Zaara… a girl from Pakistan. Zaara, a carefree, sprightly girl has come to India to fulfill her surrogate mother’s dying wish. She meets with a bus accident leaving her stranded in a foreign land.
Veer saves her life… and his life is never the same again… Twenty-two years later, Saamiya Siddiqui, a Pakistani lawyer on her first case, finds herself face-to-face with an ageing Veer Pratap Singh. He has languished in a Pakistan jail cell for 22 years and has not spoken to anyone all these years – and no one knows why.For more information please visit:
The excitement surrounding one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year, Jigra, has reached new heights with the release of its gripping official trailer. This emotional action thriller, starring Bollywood sensation Alia Bhatt (Gangubai Kathiawadi) alongside rising star Vedang Raina (The Archies), promises to captivate audiences with its powerful performances, stirring music, and breathtaking visuals.
Jigra tells the compelling story of an unbreakable bond between a sister and brother, forged through hardship and unwavering loyalty. When a series of tragic events threatens her brother’s life, the sister embarks on a perilous journey filled with anguish, determination, and an indomitable spirit. Packed with high-octane action, gut-wrenching visuals, soulful melodies and moments of profound emotion, the film is poised to be a cinematic experience like no other.
The theatrical trailer showcases a captivating glimpse into this emotional rollercoaster, featuring an awe-inspiring performance by Alia Bhatt as a sister willing to go to any lengths to protect her brother. The visuals showcase the raw intensity and depth of the sibling relationship at the heart of the story, while also teasing the film’s spectacular action sequences and poignant moments.
Helmed by visionary director Vasan Bala, the film boasts an ensemble cast including Manoj Pahwa, Aditya Nanda, Yuvraj Vijan, Ishan Jack, Jason Shah, and Harsh Singh, all of whom bring unique energy to the film.
Produced by industry giants Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, Alia Bhatt, Shaheen Bhatt, and Somen Mishra, Jigra is presented by Viacom18 Studios, Dharma Productions, and Eternal Sunshine Productions.
With its stunning visuals, moving performances, and an epic storyline, Jigra is expected to be a game-changer in Bollywood cinema. The film’s all-star cast, powerful direction, and heartwarming story are sure to leave an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
Distributed internationally by Moviegoers Entertainment, the film is slated for a global theatrical release on 11th October 2024.
The countdown to one of the most anticipated Bollywood films of the year, Jigra, starring powerhouse actor Alia Bhatt (Gangubai Kathiawadi) alongside Vedang Raina (The Archies), has officially begun.
Slated to hit cinemas on 11th October, Jigra promises to take audiences on an unforgettable emotional and cinematic journey, packed with action, romance and heartfelt melodies.
Synopsis: Jigra is an emotional action thriller. It is a tale about a sister and brother forged in fire. A series of unfortunate events leads the sister to set out on a journey of excruciating pain, vigour and a will that cannot be bent until her brother is free.
With the recent launch of eye-catching posters, a nostalgic teaser trailer, and the release of its homage to women, “Chal Kudiye” featuring Diljit Dosanjh, the film is already generating huge buzz across the globe.
The official posters for Jigra offer fans a first glimpse of the epic tale of a sister who will go to extreme lengths to protect her brother. The visuals capture the film’s larger-than-life essence, showcasing the film’s emotional intensity and thrilling action, setting the tone for a story that blends tradition, modernity and sheer cinematic grandeur.
The teaser trailer of Jigra features a soulful rendition of the classic Bollywood melody “Phoolon Ka Taaron Ka,” sung by Vedang Raina and penned by Varun Grover. It taps into a deep sense of nostalgia while giving a glimpse of the film’s poignant narrative. The recreation of this beloved song is sure to stir emotions, setting the stage for what will be an unforgettable journey of love, loyalty and resilience.
The new song from the film, “Chal Kudiye,” is out now and already climbing the charts. Sungby the incredibly talented Diljit Dosanjh and Alia Bhatt, the track is a vibrant ballad of women’s power and perseverance. Penned by Harmanjeet Singh and composed by Manpreet Singh, it honours the determination and bravery of women across various fields. The video also highlights the struggles women face and the growing global call for justice and reform.
Helmed by visionary director, Vasan Bala, Jigra boasts an all-star cast featuring some of Bollywood’s brightest talents, who are set to deliver power-packed performances. The ensemble cast includes Aditya Nanda, Yuvraj Vijan, Ishan Jack, Jason Shah and Harsh Singh, each bringing their unique flair and energy to this blockbuster production.
The film is produced by Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, Alia Bhatt, Shaheen Bhatt, Somen Mishra and presented by Viacom18 Studios, Dharma Productions and Eternal Sunshine Productions.
Jigra brings together a dynamic team of creators, combining state-of-the-art filmmaking techniques with rich, heartwarming storytelling. Distributed overseas by Moviegoers Entertainment, Jigra will be released in cinemas worldwide on 11th October 2024.
Synopsis: Jasmeet ‘Jass’ Bhamra, single mother and a stellar cop, is left wrecked after witnessing the murder of her only son when they’re out over the weekend. In deep grief and unable to cope with the loss, Jass tries to piece her life back together and gets herself posted to a different town. Just when she begins to make peace with her past, the town is jolted by the mysterious murder of a local teenage boy, the son of Indian immigrants. That the finger of suspicion is on another Pakistani boy causes rift between the communities that have historically witnessed bloodshed. Unhealed wounds fester again as Bhamra tries to negotiate her space in a new police station where old timers are set in their ways. What initially appeared to be an unassuming, middle class, small town full of hard working people from the Indian subcontinent reveals its complexities as cockroaches come out of woodwork. Secrets are spilled, communities are fractured, innocence is lost and a complex web of intergenerational prejudices comes to the surface. Jass must face the demons of her past in order to get justice to the boy’s grieving family and more importantly, find closure for herself.
Award Winners announced for 15th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
The award winners for the 15th annual Indian Film Festival of Melbourne have been announced, showcasing a diverse range of talent and inspirational stories. Stars from India, the subcontinent, and across Australia, flew into Melbourne and graced the red carpet at The Palais Theatre on 16 August for a night of glitz and glamour, honouring some of the best in the business.
The Ambassador of Indian Art and Culture was awarded to Ram Charan. (pictured right) Ram Charan’s song ‘Naatu Naatu‘ from the hit film RRR made history by becoming the first Indian film song to win an Oscar.
The Festival was thrilled to welcome Charan for its 15th iteration, which also saw the star greet fans at Federation Square for the Indian Independence Day celebration and flag raising ceremony on 17th August. Thousands of adoring fans took over the Main Square to get a glimpse of Charan on this very special day.
The very prestigious IFFM Award for Best Performance (Male) went to Kartik Aaryan in Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan, who walked away with Best Director Award for this film. Chandu Champion tells the powerful story of a man who faced one adversary after another with an undying spirit. His unwavering zeal led to India’s first individual gold medal in any form of the Olympics.
The Best Director Award was also shared by Nithilan Swaminathan for Maharaja.
The Excellence in Cinema Award went to Dr. A.R, Rahman (pictured left) India’s most celebrated musician, Dr AR Rahman is also a Grammy, Oscar, BAFTA and Golden Globe winner.
This year’s Short Film Competition winner went to The Vegemite Sandwich directed by Robbie Fatt. In addition, a special mention goes to Echo, directed by Sandeep Raj.
The IFFM Award for Best Performance (Male) Series went to Arjun Mathur in Made in Heaven S2. The IFFM Award for Best Performance (Female) Series went to Nimisha Sajayan in Poacher , and the Best Series Award went to Kohrra.
The Best Film from the Subcontinent Award was awarded to The Red Suitcase, directed by Fidel Devkota. Best Documentary went to Trolley Times.
This year Adarsh Gourav took home the IFFM Disruptor of the Year award. The Diversity Champion Award went to Rasika Dugal, and Breakout Film of the Year went to Amar Singh Chamkila, directed by Imtiaz Ali.
Best Performance (Female) went to Parvathy Thiruvothu (pictured right) in Ullozhukku (undercurrent).
The IFFM People’s Choice Award went to Rocky Aur Rani Kil Prem Kahaani. The Equality in Cinema Award went to Dunki, directed by Rajkumar Hirani.
The IFFM Award for Best Film – Critics Choice was awarded to Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao. The critically acclaimed film tells the story of two young newly-wed brides who get exchanged during a train ride to their husband’s homes.
The IFFM Award for Best Film and Best Performer (Critics Choice) got swept away by Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail.
The IFFM Award for Best Director – Critics’ Choice went to Dominic Sangma for Rimdogittanga (Rapture).
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne continues until 25 August, with screenings and events across the city and into regional Victoria.
For media enquiries please contact, Payal Lakhotia: payal@mindblowingfilms.com M 046 877 7012
Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 14 / 82 Acland Street, St Kilda, Victoria, 3182
