Category: international

international

India and Australia seal three-year film partnership as IFFM leads historic delegation at IFFI 2025

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) led a significant and diverse Australian screen delegation of screen leaders to the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which is currently taking place in Panjim, Goa, till 28th November 2025. This marks an important new phase where IFFM is spearheading expanded creative and institutional partnerships between the two nations. This historic moment was officially recognised on November 21, when IFFM and IFFI signed a Memorandum of Understanding that starts a three-year partnership between the Australian and Indian screen industries. Three MOUs were signed to shape a new era of Indo-Australian screen collaboration in the presence of Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece and Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, I&B Ministry of India, members of the Indian and Australian film fraternity, and others. Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece, said. “Australia has one of the biggest Indian diasporas in the world, fuelling the growth of the local Indian film sector. More Australians than ever before are embracing Indian cinema and all its colour, passion and energy. This agreement will strengthen the relationship between India and Melbourne, and create more local jobs, more films and more global exposure in the Indian film industry”. Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Festival Director of IFFM and Founder of Mind Blowing Films, said, “India and Australia have enjoyed a long and meaningful cultural connection, but what we are witnessing now is a truly transformative moment for our screen industries with this exciting new development. These new partnerships reflect a shared commitment to collaboration, exchange and long-term creative growth. For us at IFFM and Mind Blowing Films, it is incredibly fulfilling to help build pathways that support filmmakers, students, producers and storytellers from both nations. From expanded festival linkages to academic partnerships and increased distribution access, the initiatives announced at IFFI represent the strongest and most holistic framework we have ever established together. I am deeply grateful to our Lord Mayor, Sanjay Jaju, the NFDC and IFFI for making this moment a reality that shall be etched in the new cultural landscape.”These partnerships represent one of the most ambitious India-Australia film initiatives to date. Through shared festivals, industry ties, educational pathways, and expanded distribution, the collaborations announced at IFFI lay the groundwork for the long-term growth of the Indo-Australian screen ecosystem. IFFM’s role in bringing this delegation to India marks a significant step forward in cultural diplomacy through cinema. It also opens new opportunities for storytellers, students, producers, and audiences in both countries. Also Read: Manish Malhotra’s Gustaakh Ishq to premiere at IFFI 2025 on November 24.

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cultureinternationalmediaPoliticsreligion

PIL filed against Paresh Rawal’s The Taj Story over controversial poster depicting Lord Shiva statue

A public interest litigation (PIL) petition has been filed before the Delhi High Court seeking action against the soon-to-be-released film The Taj Story featuring actor Paresh Rawal. The film, scheduled for release on October 31, sparked heated debate following its poster, which depicts a statue of Lord Shiva emerging from the iconic Taj Mahal dome-a visual that reignites the contentious theory alleging the monument’s Hindu temple origins. Advocate Shakeel Abbas, the petitioner, alleges that The Taj Story presents “fabricated and provocative content” about the origins of the Taj Mahal, contradicting established historical consensus and scholarly writings. The petition claims the film’s speculative assertions threaten to erode public faith in history, provoke communal unrest, and potentially damage the international reputation of the Taj Mahal, which is recognized globally as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The plea urges the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to review the certification granted to the movie and instruct required cuts if necessary to safeguard communal harmony across the country. Furthermore, the PIL requests that a clear disclaimer be added to the film, clarifying that it presents a contested narrative rather than established fact. According to the petition, the movie contains “deeply divisive scenes” that may incite communal tensions and disrupt public peace. The plea also mentions the amplification of controversial statements by political leaders and fringe groups, raising alarms over the potential for nationwide unrest. Also Read: Paresh Rawal REACTS to The Taj Story being called “propaganda”: “It focuses solely on historical facts”.

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celebrityEntertainmentinternationalmusicmusicindustry

Jonita Gandhi and Progressive Brothers to open for Enrique Iglesias in Mumbai

Multi-Grammy Award-winning music icon Enrique Iglesias is set to illuminate the MMRDA Grounds in Mumbai on October 29 and 30, 2025, marking his highly anticipated return to India. Joining him as the official support acts will be the talented Indo-Canadian singer Jonita Gandhi and the electrifying EDM duo Progressive Brothers. Jonita Gandhi states, “It’s truly a dream come true to share the stage with Enrique Iglesias. I grew up listening to his music, he’s such an icon. I’m incredibly excited to connect with fans and bring my energy to this concert.”PRO BROS state, “Opening for Enrique is an incredible honour. We can’t wait to bring our unique sound to the audience and set the stage for an unforgettable show!”Produced by India’s leading live event company, EVA Live, this mega concert promises an unforgettable evening featuring a nostalgia-filled showcase of Iglesias’ extensive career, including both classic hits and contemporary chart-toppers. This tour marks Iglesias’ third visit to India, following his celebrated performances in 2004 and 2012. With tickets available on the District App and one show already sold out, over 50, 000 fans are expected to attend across both days. Enrique Iglesias is revered as one of the world’s most prolific musical icons, and attendees can look forward to an immersive experience enhanced by a dynamic setlist, world-class production and stunning visuals. Jonita Gandhi started her journey by posting covers on YouTube, and has since released over 150 songs in more than 10 languages. She has collaborated with international artists like Ed Sheeran, The Chainsmokers and Michael Bublé, and shared stages with everyone from Shawn Mendes to Michael Bublé; establishing herself as one of India’s most versatile playback singers while successfully navigating a career as an independent artist-an impressive feat in the music industry. Progressive Brothers, comprised of Sunny Sharma and Karan Bhalla, are a notable name in India’s electronic music scene. They have shared stages with globally recognized artists such as DJ Snake, David Guetta, Dimitri Vegas Like Mike, Tiesto Afrojack, Steve Aoki, Kygo, KSHMR and Martin Garrix, and have played at prestigious festivals like Sunburn Festival, VH1 Supersonic, Road To Ultra and Electric Daisy Carnival. They have released music on global labels such as Edm. com, Tiesto’s Musical Freedom, Spinnin’ Records and Chuckie’s Dirty Dutch Digital. The event is powered by Mastercard. Also Read: Ed Sheeran teams up with India’s Jonita Gandhi for Hindi-English fusion track “Heaven”.

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