100 Years Of Guru Dutt: IFFM 2025 To Pay Tribute To Movie Maestro With Screenings Of Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) will pay a tribute to legendary actor-filmmaker Guru Dutt. As part of its 2025 edition, IFFM will host special screenings of his two classics, Pyaasa (1957) and Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959).

Guru Dutt, who died at the young age of 39, directed just eight films in his career span. Known for his visionary storytelling and deeply human narratives, the greatest pioneer of Hindi cinema would have turned 100 today (July 9). By paying the tribute, IFFM aims to celebrate not just Guru Dutt, but the legacy of the movie maestro who created magic on screen, with some of his intellectual films.

Sharing her thoughts on the special homage, festival Director, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, said, "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 of Guru Dutt's iconic films will be part of a curated retrospective celebrating Indian cinema’s golden age and its enduring influence. Melbourne audiences will get this golden opportunity to witness Guru Dutt’s work on the big screen.

IFFM 2025 is scheduled to take place from August 14–August 24, 2025, where there will be screenings, panels, masterclasses, and cultural events. Aamir Khan will be the Chief Guest of the festival. The festival will also honour Aamir Khan’s legacy, including a screening of Sitaare Zameen Par.

The screening will be followed by a live conversation with Aamir Khan, director RS Prasanna, and Aparna Purohit, CEO of Aamir Khan Films.