After the incredible success of the virtual Indian film festival of Melbourne 2020 last year, the Indian Film Festival Of Melbourne 2021 is gearing to host both online and offline events next month.

The 12th edition of this esteemed festival will be in cinemas from August 12 to 21, and online from August 15 to 30. It has now opened its doors to entries for the IFFM Short Film Competition. The jury for this year’s Short Film Competition is National Award-winning filmmaker, Onir and the supremely talented producer, actor, and activist, Richa Chadha.

Richa has been a part of the IFFM in 2016 and 2018 as well when her film Love Sonia was the opening night film for that year’s festival.

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The theme for this year’s short film competition is Modern Slavery and Equality that aims to address the threats to these principles in the contemporary world.

The last date of submission is July 20 and the official website of the IFFM provides further details, terms, and conditions for the submission.

On becoming a part of the panel of judges, Onir said, “As someone who has been associated with the festival right from the start I am always fascinated and impressed by the depth and diversity of the short films that compere. I think that modern-day slavery runs in streams throughout our present world and the severe exploitation of people comes in many forms. And while our Constitution says that every single person has the Right to Equality, is that really the case in reality? This year’s theme gives filmmakers a chance to explore these sides of society which reflect the kind of humanity we have in present times. I am excited to see what the filmmakers come up with..”

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Richa Chadha is also excited and feels completely honored to have the faith of members of IFFM.

“The theme of this year’s competition is, I believe, not only relevant but of extreme importance that needs our urgent attention. I can’t wait to see the entries we get this time around the theme of equality and modern slavery.

“It’s important to celebrate all formats of entertainment and shorts are such a founding concept for budding Filmmakers and storytellers, to give voice and recognition to their style of filmmaking. Speaking from my personal experience having both acted and directed short films, it’s extremely tough to tell an entire story within a fairly short period of time,” she said.