The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the largest celebration of Indian cinema outside India, has announced a special tribute to legendary filmmaker Guru Dutt on the occasion of his birth centenary. As part of its 2025 edition, the festival will host exclusive screenings of two of Dutt’s most iconic films — Pyaasa (1957) and Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959).
Guru Dutt, born on July 9, 1925, is widely regarded as one of the most influential auteurs in Hindi cinema. His films are celebrated for their poetic storytelling, emotional depth, and innovative cinematic techniques. Despite directing only eight films before his untimely death in 1964, Dutt’s legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and cinephiles worldwide.
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange emphasized the significance of the tribute, stating, “Guru Dutt was far ahead of his time, both in terms of cinematic technique and the emotional depth of his narratives. His films like Pyaasa and Kaagaz Ke Phool are not just classics, they are cultural treasures that speak to the soul of Indian cinema. At IFFM, we believe it is essential to honour those who shaped our cinematic heritage. This tribute is our humble way of remembering his genius and introducing his timeless work to new global audiences”.
The screenings will be part of a curated retrospective celebrating the golden age of Indian cinema. Audiences in Melbourne will have the rare opportunity to experience Dutt’s visual poetry on the big screen, reaffirming his status as a pioneer who viewed cinema as a profound artistic expression rather than mere entertainment.
IFFM 2025 is scheduled to take place from August 14 to August 24, featuring a diverse lineup of screenings, panels, masterclasses, and cultural events. The festival will also honour actor Aamir Khan with a special retrospective, further underscoring its commitment to celebrating cinematic excellence across generations.
