Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2026: Celebrating Excellence in Cinema
Highlights from the IFFM 2026 Awards
At the recent Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), numerous artists including Rishab Shetty, Dulquer Salmaan, Kirti Kulhari, Vijay Varma, and Rasika Dugal were recognized with awards across different categories. Veteran actress Rekha received the prestigious ‘Excellence in Cinema’ award, while Rani Mukerji was honored with a special accolade for her remarkable 30-year journey in the film industry.
Complete List of Winners at IFFM 2026
Full Winners List of IFFM 2026
Best Film: Loka Chapter 1: Chandra
Best Film - Special Mention: The Great Shamsuddin Family
Best Indie Film: Rima Das (Not a Hero)
Special Mention - Indie Film: Kikran D Phull (Babool Ke Phool)
Best Director: Rishab Shetty (Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1)
Best Actor: Dulquer Salmaan (Kaantha)
Best Actress: Kirti Kulhari (Full Plate)
Best Film from the Subcontinent: No Good Men - Shahrbanoo Sadat
Best Documentary Film: Flying Tigers - Madhushree Dutta
People's Choice Award: Saiyara
Equality in Cinema Award: Sitaare Zameen Par
Special Mention (Equality in Cinema): Simran Mangeshkar - Sitaare Zameen Par
Rainbow Storyteller Award: Lala and Poppy
Short Film Competition (Australia): Mitti Ka Vajan
Short Film Competition (India): Jo Ki Baari
Best Actor (Series): Vijay Varma (Matka King)
Best Actress (Series): Rasika Dugal (Delhi Crime 3)
Best Series: Freedom at Midnight, Season 2
Artist of Distinction: Pankaj Tripathi
Special Recognition: Rani Mukerji (For completing 30 years in cinema)
Leadership in Cinema: Rishab Shetty
Excellence in Cinema: Rekha
The Significance of IFFM
IFFM gives global recognition to Indian cinema.
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne stands as a prominent platform for Indian cinema outside of India, showcasing a variety of films from across the nation and the subcontinent. The festival not only celebrates established stars and films but also shines a light on emerging filmmakers, independent cinema, and narratives from diverse communities. This year's winners exemplify the rich diversity inherent in Indian cinema.
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