Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025 Welcomes Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Shoojit Sircar as Short Film Jury

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025, set to dazzle audiences from August 14 to 24, is gearing up for an exciting edition with renowned filmmakers Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Shoojit Sircar joining as jury members for its prestigious Short Film Competition.

Known for spotlighting bold and innovative storytelling, IFFM 2025 promises to be a vibrant celebration of Indian cinema, with the short film segment showcasing emerging talent from India and beyond. Here’s a dive into what makes this jury duo and the competition a highlight of the upcoming festival.

Who Are the Star Jurors for the Short Film Competition?

Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, celebrated for heartfelt films like Nil Battey Sannata and Bareilly Ki Barfi, brings her knack for capturing human emotions to the jury table. Her ability to craft relatable, nuanced stories makes her a perfect fit to judge the fresh and daring perspectives often found in short films.

Tiwari expressed her enthusiasm, noting that short films are a powerful medium brimming with bold ideas and raw passion.Joining her is Shoojit Sircar, the visionary director behind cinematic gems like Piku, October, and Sardar Udham.

Known for his deep, socially relevant storytelling, Sircar is eager to discover pathbreaking voices in the short film entries. His eye for authenticity and emotional depth promises to elevate the judging process at IFFM 2025.

What Makes the Short Film Competition Special?

The Short Film Competition at IFFM 2025 is a highlight of the festival, drawing an impressive array of entries from filmmakers across India and the global Indian diaspora. Known for its competitive spirit, the category celebrates stories that are experimental, culturally rich, and emotionally resonant.

With Tiwari and Sircar on the jury, participants can expect a discerning yet inspiring evaluation of their work.The competition serves as a launchpad for emerging filmmakers, offering a global stage to showcase their creativity.

Past editions have spotlighted unique voices, and with this powerhouse jury, IFFM 2025 is set to uncover new talent that pushes storytelling boundaries.

Why Is IFFM 2025 a Must-Attend Event?

Running from August 14 to 24, IFFM 2025 will transform Melbourne into a hub of Indian cinema, featuring a dynamic lineup of screenings, red carpet events, and industry panels. The Short Film Competition is just one part of the festival’s vibrant offerings, which also include the glamorous IFFM Awards celebrating cinematic excellence.

With Tiwari and Sircar judging, the short film segment is poised to draw significant attention, showcasing stories that pack a punch in their brevity.The festival’s commitment to fostering new talent makes it a magnet for filmmakers and cinephiles alike, with submissions still pouring in as the event approaches.

Expect a celebration of creativity that bridges cultures and amplifies diverse voices.

How Will the Jury Shape the Competition?

Tiwari and Sircar’s involvement brings unparalleled credibility to the Short Film Competition. Their combined expertise in crafting emotionally rich and socially impactful stories ensures that the selected films will reflect authenticity and innovation.

Festival organizers have praised their inclusion, noting that their creative vision aligns perfectly with IFFM’s mission to champion bold storytelling.As judges, they’ll be looking for entries that blend fresh perspectives with powerful narratives, making the competition a thrilling opportunity for filmmakers to shine on an international stage.

Why Should You Get Excited for IFFM 2025?

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025 is shaping up to be a cinematic feast, and the Short Film Competition, with Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Shoojit Sircar as jurors, is a major reason to get excited.

Their passion for storytelling and keen eye for talent promise to make this year’s competition a showcase of unforgettable stories. Whether you’re a filmmaker submitting your work or a film lover eager to discover new voices, IFFM 2025 is the place to be.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Mark August 14 to 24 on your calendar and head to Melbourne for a festival that celebrates the heart and soul of Indian cinema.

With Tiwari and Sircar leading the charge, the Short Film Competition is set to deliver moments of brilliance that will linger long after the festival ends.