On-screen character Shah Rukh Khan was joined by Indian film industry's other noticeable figures as the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne commenced on Thursday in Australia. Movie producers Sriram Raghavan, Karan Johar, Zoya Akhtar and entertainers Arjun Kapoor and Tabu spoke to their movies and the film business overall at the fest.
Shah Rukh discussed the celebration, commending its tenth commemoration this year. "Many years ago in 2006-07, I came here when I was a rising superstar giving hit films after hit films. And now I am back here again, still a rising superstar not making as many hit films (chuckles), as much as I would want to do so," he said. His last film, Zero, was a film industry flop. He hasn't chosen om his next undertaking since the film discharged in December a year ago.
"I thank everyone for the opportunity to speak here. It's heartening that because of the Indian diaspora – the second generation of Indians here, Indian cinema is getting noticed. It's extremely gratifying and makes every Indian proud. I speak for everyone on the dais today, that we are happy to be here," he included.
Karan Johar additionally referenced the incredible movies made in the nation this year, for example, Gully Boy, Andhadhun and Super Deluxe. "It's not the films but the people behind the festival who make it what it is. When I see this fantastic panel and we say the theme is courage, I say the panel is reflective of the glorious courage of our films and changing the face of Indian cinema. It represents three feature films that have changed the way we look at Indian cinema and how it has traveled across the globe and will continue to do so.
There is Super Deluxe, Andhadhun and Gully Boy. All of these have appealed not only to the diaspora but to international audiences across the globe, making Indian cinema so proud. And what to say about Shah Rukh Khan, he fully represents superstardom. I firmly believe, in the era, we belonged to, the term is understood because of him. It's not just about his large heart but his tremendous presence and aura. The fact that he is an outstanding actor is the hugest icing on the cake."
