14 August,2023 10:30 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shabana Azmi
Shabana Azmi, a beacon of cinematic brilliance and cultural significance, illuminated the Australian soil with the tri-colour, emblematic of India's rich heritage. The occasion was the prestigious 'The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2023', where the iconic actress hosted the flag hoisting ceremony. As the tricolour fluttered against the Melbourne sky line, the shared emotions of patriotism and unity resonated strongly with attendees.
Shabana Azmi, a globally acclaimed artist, has not only etched her name in the annals of Indian cinema but also transcended borders, capturing the hearts of audiences across continents. Commenting on the ceremony, Shabana Azmi said, "To be having this honour to hoist the Indian flag, the flag that I'm so proud of, the flag all of us present today are proud of in Melbourne is an honour I never believed I could have. I would like to reiterate that we are here to celebrate Indian cinema in Melbourne, and I truly believe that art knows no boundaries and cinema can be an instrument for social change".
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Shabana Azmi is also set to dazzle on the screen in R.Balki's highly anticipated film 'Ghoomer' which made its world premiere at the festival. Written and directed by R Balki, the flick also stars Abhishek Bachchan, Saiyami Kher and Angad Bedi in the pivotal roles. The story revolves around Anina, a young woman batting prodigy, who loses her right hand in an unfortunate accident on the eve of her international cricketing debut. An unsympathetic, failed and frustrated cricketer enters her life, gives her a new dream and transforms her fate by the most innovative training, to make her play for the Indian cricket team again, as a bowler. Ghoomer is the new style of bowling they invent to bamboozle the opposition. It is inspired by the incredible achievement of Karoly Takacs, the achievements of special athletes, and who have achieved more than when they were called "normal".
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2023 continues to be a significant platform for showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of Indian cinema on the global stage and the festival started on 11th august and will conclude on 20th august.
