Homebound takes Best Film & Best Director at IFFM 2025, as Aamir Khan and other cinema legends are celebrated in a sparkling night of honours.

The 16th edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) wrapped up its awards night with a surge of cinematic glory. Filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan earned both Best Director and Best Film for Homebound, which closed the festival on a high note . The heartwarming indie film Angammal also shone, winning Best Indie Film and Best Actor (Female) – Film for Geetha Kailasam .

In acting honours:

Abhishek Bachchan took Best Actor (Male) – Film for I Want to Talk (with a special mention to Gugun Kigpen for Boong) .

On the streaming side, Best Series went to Black Warrant, while Jaideep Ahlawat won Best Actor (Male) – Series for Paatal Lok Season 2, and Nimisha Sajayan earned Best Actor (Female) – Series for Dabba Cartel .

The evening also paid tribute to cinema’s stalwarts:

Aamir Khan received the Excellence in Cinema Award, recognizing his unparalleled contribution to the art form .

Arvind Swamy was honoured with the Leadership in Cinema Award .

Vir Das earned the Disruptor Award, while Aditi Rao Hydari was lauded with the Diversity in Cinema Award .

The Equality in Cinema Award went to Baksho Bondi .

Short films were also celebrated:

Best Short Film (India): Kalar Pencils by Dhananjay Santosh Goregaonkar

Best Short Film (Australia): Drifters by David Liu .

Running from August 14–24, the IFFM 2025 also included moving tributes to cinematic legends. Ritwik Ghatak was honoured on his 100th birth centenary, and special screenings paid homage to Guru Dutt’s cinematic legacy . The festival featured masterclasses, premieres, and vibrant cultural dialogues—making it a resounding celebration of Indian cinema on the global stage .