Bollywood actor‑comedian Vir Das, who won the 2023 International Emmy Award for his Netflix special Vir Das: Landing, will be felicitated at the 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), running from August 14–24, 2025.

The festival organisers will honour him for his trailblazing contributions to Indian entertainment, particularly comedy, and his success in bringing Indian storytelling to global platforms. In a statement, Vir Das expressed gratitude: "It’s incredibly humbling to be recognised by IFFM, a festival that celebrates the diversity and strength of Indian storytelling,” calling it "truly special".

2025 is shaping up as a landmark year for Das - he’s co-directing Happy Patel under Aamir Khan Films and launching his debut book, The Outsider. Festival director Mitu Bhowmick Lange praised his global appeal, saying honouring Vir reflects “the evolving and dynamic spirit of Indian storytelling” .

IFFM 2025 promises a stellar showcase - screenings, masterclasses, and engaging panels - cementing its status as the largest annual celebration of Indian cinema outside India