Bollywood Stars Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal to Launch New Zealand's First Indian Film Festival

Bollywood Arrives in New Zealand

Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal are bringing Bollywood flair to New Zealand as they prepare to attend the inaugural Indian Film Festival of New Zealand (TIFFNZ) on June 2.

The talented actor-producer pair will be the main attraction at the launch event, which will feature a special screening of their debut production, the acclaimed film Girls Will Be Girls.

Scheduled to kick off in October, TIFFNZ represents a significant achievement as New Zealand's first dedicated festival for Indian cinema. Initiated by Petrina D’Rozario, the festival's mission is to honor Indian films while fostering creative connections between India and New Zealand.

Expressing their enthusiasm for the festival, Richa and Ali stated, “We’re thrilled to be part of the TIFFNZ launch. Film festivals are crucial for fostering dialogue and providing a platform for diverse narratives. The initiative to present Indian cinema in a structured and celebratory manner in New Zealand is both timely and significant. We eagerly anticipate engaging with audiences there.”

The festival is designed as a four-day event celebrating Indian narratives across Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, featuring screenings, workshops, cultural activities, and discussions aimed at connecting filmmakers, audiences, and creatives from both nations. The first edition is expected to present approximately 30 films in both feature and short formats, showcasing the richness and global appeal of Indian cinema while amplifying South Asian voices in Aotearoa.