To commemorate 75 years of India’s independence, actor Abhishek Bachchan and former cricketer Kapil Dev will be hoisting the Tricolour in Melbourne, Australia on August 13. The two, who are key speakers at the forthcoming edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, will host the National Flag at Federation Square.
“It is a great honour to be a part of the 75th year celebrations of Indian independence in Melbourne. It’s a matter of pride for me to hoist the National Flag,” says Bachchan, 46, pointing out how the occasion likewise features the merging of cinema and cricket on a global arena. “This is a mark of the friendship between Australia and India,” he notes.
He added, “To share this platform with Kapil sir is momentous for me and the event also marks the coming together of cinema and cricket, two things that have often united us Indians. I am looking forward to celebrating India, Indians and the spirit of our country among hundreds of people in attendance.”
Earlier, on being a part of the festival, Dev said, “It’s a deep-rooted emotional connection we have for both cinema and sports, and when they come together, it’s a rewarding experience.”
The film fest, which will be held from August 12-20, is coming back after two years of being held virtually because of the pandemic.