In a moment of immense pride, she will hoist the Indian national flag in Melbourne as part of the festival’s celebrations. She will also be honoured with the prestigious Excellence in Cinema Award in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema. Excited about the film’s screening at IFFM, Rekha in a press note said, ‘Umrao Jaan has never left me. ‘Having Rekha ji hoist the Indian National Flag on India’s Independence Day is a moment of immense pride for all of us. The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will take place from 13 to 23 August 2026 (ANI)