The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 transformed into a dazzling night of celebration as Indian cinema’s finest talents were honoured at its prestigious Awards Night. The atmosphere buzzed with applause, emotion, and pride as filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s moving drama Homebound emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, taking home both Best Film and Best Director.
Bollywood legend Aamir Khan received the coveted Excellence in Cinema Award, recognising his unparalleled legacy and immense contribution to Indian cinema. Reflecting on the honour, Aamir said, “I have been drawn to storytelling from a very young age.
Filmmaking is a collaborative art, and this award wouldn’t be possible without my writers, directors, co-stars, and audiences who have supported me and the stories I’ve been part of.”Abhishek Bachchan delivered a heartfelt moment as he won Best Actor (Male) – Film for I Want to Talk. Visibly moved, he shared, “Life has come full circle for me.
In 2022, I was honoured here with the Excellence in Cinema award for my body of work. Now, to be recognised for this role on the same stage is deeply emotional. Three years ago at this festival, Shoojit Da offered me this role, which is very special—it’s an ode to my father and daughter, about caring and raising a parent.”The festival’s winners showcased the rich diversity of Indian storytelling.
Homebound secured Best Film and Best Director for Neeraj Ghaywan. Angammal won Best Indie Film, with Gugun Kigpen receiving a Special Mention for Boong. Geetha Kailasam earned Best Actor (Female) – Film for Angammal.In television, Black Warrant won Best Series. Jaideep Ahlawat took Best Actor (Male) – Series for Paatal Lok Season 2, while Nimisha Sajayan won Best Actor (Female) – Series for Dabba Cartel. Jaideep expressed gratitude, saying, “Being recognised internationally at IFFM is an honour I will cherish.
This award belongs to the entire Paatal Lok team. I’m deeply thankful to the jury and the audience for their love and support.”Honorary awards included Arvind Swamy’s Leadership in Cinema Award, Vir Das’s Disruptor Award, Aditi Rao Hydari’s Diversity in Cinema Award, and Baksho Bondi’s Equality in Cinema Award. Arvind Swamy said, “Though honoured with Leadership in Cinema, I still see myself as a student of film.
