Veteran actress Rekha will be seen as the guest of honour at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026, with her iconic 1981 film ‘Umrao Jaan’ set to be screened at the event. The actress says the character has stayed with her over the decades and continues to live in her memories.
Rekha on her character ‘Umrao Jaan’
Speaking on this with IANS, Rekha said in a statement, “‘Umrao Jaan’ has never left me. She lives in my memories, in my silences, and in the hearts of those who have embraced her with a lot of love over the years. To revisit that journey and see the film being celebrated on a global stage is both humbling and moving.”‘Umrao Jaan’ is a period musical drama directed by Muzaffar Ali, with Rekha playing the title character. Based on Mirza Hadi Ruswa’s 1899 Urdu novel Umrao Jaan Ada, the film tells the story of a Lucknow tawaif and poet and her rise to fame. The film has won several honours over the years, including four awards at the 29th National Film Awards, among them the award for Best Actress.
Rekha to receive excellence in cinema award
The festival will also honour Rekha with the prestigious Excellence in Cinema Award, celebrating her body of work and contribution to Indian cinema. Rekha said, “Cinema has been my life’s greatest blessing, and to be honoured with the Excellence in Cinema Award at IFFM 2026 is special. I accept this honour with immense gratitude, not only as a recognition of my own journey, but also as a tribute to the filmmakers, writers, musicians and countless collaborators who have enriched my life and shaped my work.”
Rekha to hoist Indian flag on Independence Day
As part of the festival’s Independence Day tradition, Rekha will hoist the Indian national flag in Melbourne on August 15, marking India’s 79th Independence Day. The ceremony has previously been led by stars including the late Rishi Kapoor, Aamir Khan, Shabana Azmi, Anil Kapoor, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange said, “Rekha ji is one such timeless icon. Her extraordinary body of work, her grace, and the unparalleled legacy she has built over decades have inspired audiences not only in India but across the world.”The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will take place from August 13 to 23, 2026.