From India to Australia: Saiyami Kher and Vikram Phadnis Bring ‘Pal Bhar Ke Liye’ to IFFM 2026!
Actor Saiyami Kher and filmmaker #VikramPhadnis are set to take Indian cinema to the global stage as their anticipated feature ‘#PalBharKeLiye’ heads to the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026 for its World Premiere. The ensemble drama also stars Ishwak Singh, Tahir Raj Bhasin, and Vineet Kumar in standout roles.
For Saiyami Kher, the moment comes with added significance. After receiving immense love at IFFM during the screening of Ghoomer, which was the opening Film at IFFM 2023, the actor returns to the prestigious festival with yet another film, making it a full-circle moment in her cinematic journey. The premiere marks an exciting milestone for the team as they unveil their film before an international audience known for celebrating powerful and diverse storytelling.
Speaking about the occasion, Saiyami Kher said, “IFFM has always held a very special place in my heart. My memories of bringing Ghoomer to Melbourne are incredibly close to me, and to now return with ‘Pal Bhar Ke Liye’ for its World Premiere feels truly surreal. There’s something magical about watching your work connect with audiences from different cultures, yet through emotions that are universally understood. I’m grateful that our film begins its journey on such a prestigious international platform, and I can’t wait to experience it with audiences in Melbourne.”
Director Vikram Phadnis shared, “As a filmmaker, every story deserves to find its audience, and there’s no better place to introduce our film than IFFM. The festival has consistently championed meaningful Indian cinema on a global stage, and it is an honour for all of us to have our World Premiere here. Pal Bhar Ke Liye’ has been a labour of love for the entire team, and I’m excited for audiences from across the world to experience it for the very first time.”
Mitu Bhowmick Lange AM, Festival Director of IFFM, said, “We are delighted to host the World Premiere of Vikram Phadnis’ upcoming film at IFFM 2026. The festival has always celebrated compelling stories and exceptional talent from Indian cinema, and this film is a wonderful addition to this year’s programme. We look forward to sharing this exciting new film with our audiences and celebrating the incredible team behind it.”
With an exciting cast, a compelling story, and its World Premiere at one of the world’s most celebrated festivals for Indian cinema, the film is poised to make a strong first impression before audiences and the international film fraternity alike.
By Keerti Kadam