MELBOURNE, 15 October, 2026 : Acclaimed Indian actor Vidya Balan will be the Chief Guest at the inaugural Indian Film Festival of Perth (IFFP), which will run from 22–24 January 2027.
Balan will officially open the festival, marking a major milestone for Indian cinema in Western Australia as Perth hosts its first dedicated celebration of Indian films.
A new platform for Indian cinema
The festival is the latest initiative from the team behind the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) and the Indian Film Festival of Sydney (IFFS). It aims to create a new platform for Indian filmmakers, stories and audiences while strengthening cultural ties between India and Western Australia.
The IFFM is regarded as one of the largest celebrations of Indian cinema outside India, and the Perth edition will extend that model to a new Australian audience.
Announced during WA Premier’s India visit
The festival was announced during Western Australian Premier Roger Cook’s visit to India, highlighting the growing cultural and creative relationship between the two regions.
Organisers say the launch represents an important step in expanding the reach of Indian cinema and creating new opportunities for cultural exchange through film.
Vidya Balan’s role
Vidya Balan, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actors, has been recognised for championing distinctive storytelling and female-led narratives.
Her presence as Chief Guest is expected to give the inaugural festival added prominence and set the tone for a program celebrating Indian cinema’s diversity across languages, genres and perspectives.
Festival director’s message
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM said bringing the festival to Perth was a “very special milestone”.
