CANBERRA, 13 August 2024: India’s iconic and legendary film producer and director, Yash Chopra, known for popularising romantic Indian movies across the world, got a fitting tribute from Australia with a commemorative postage stamp, aimed to honour his legacy during a function today at the Australian Parliament to celebrate Indian cinema. Actress Rani Mukerji (Yash Chopra’s daughter-in-law) unveiled the stamp in the presence of Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese, filmmaker Karan Johar, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) Director among others.
The milestone moment was witnessed at the first ever celebration of Indian cinema at the Australian Parliament, marking the 15th year of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. The event was in tandem with the keynote speeches delivered by Rani Mukerji and Karan Johar at the Parliament in Canberra. It event also celebrated 50 years of the Yash Raj Films, India’s top production house.
Yash Chopra was also the first Patron of the IFFM, in its 15th year now. Today’s function took place today, ahead of the 15th annual Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) which is slated to commence from 15 August this year.
At the function organised by the Parliamentary Friends of Australia, Tim Watts, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tony Burke, Minister for Home Affairs, Immigration, Citizenship, Multicultural Affairs, Cyber Security, in addition to being the Leader of the House addressed the gathering.
Rani Mukerji expressed her excitement, saying, “I’m truly honoured and humbled to be a part of this momentous occasion of the launch of legendary film-maker 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. The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) has been a catalyst for bringing India and Australia closer to each other by championing cultural and creative ties for 15 years now. I’m proud to see the festival grow from strength to strength year on year and act as a bridge connecting the best creative minds of India and Australia.”
Mitu Bhowmik Lange shared her thoughts, stating, “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. It is our absolute honour to have Rani with us here on this special landmark day to honour his legacy. 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.”
This year’s festival will take place across Melbourne between 15-25 August 2024.
