Global star Ram Charan, the celebrated face of Indian cinema, brought a wave of national pride to Melbourne’s iconic Federation Square as he hoisted the Indian tricolour to mark the opening of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024. The ceremony, a poignant highlight of the festival, witnessed hundreds of diaspora Indians gather to witness this symbol of unity and cultural pride.

The actor, recently honored with the prestigious title of Ambassador of Indian Arts and Culture by the Victorian government at the IFFM awards, embodies the spirit of global Indian cinema. His presence at the festival underscores the IFFM's commitment to showcasing Indian culture and cinematic excellence on a global stage.

Federation Square reverberated with joy and fervor as Ram Charan, a true representative of India's cinematic prowess, performed this significant act. His passionate words resonated with the crowd: It's a moment of immense pride for all of us Indians to be here, hoisting our flag in Australia. I have such fond memories of shooting here in Melbourne and Sydney 12 years ago. The growth of the Indian community here is truly heartwarming, a testament to the global reach of our culture and cinema. The future is bright, and it lies in the hands of the young people here, who are embracing our heritage and celebrating our achievements on such a grand stage.

The IFFM, now in its 15th year, remains the largest celebration of Indian cinema outside India, running from August 15th to 25th. The festival offers a platform to celebrate diverse narratives, showcase cinematic talent, and foster a deeper understanding of Indian culture.

Ram Charan's presence at the IFFM not only celebrates his individual achievements but also highlights the global impact of Indian cinema. He continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his talent and his commitment to representing the rich tapestry of Indian culture.