The Indo-Australian anthology, "My Melbourne," is returning for a second installment, bringing together a stellar lineup of Indian filmmakers. Following the success of the first chapter released in March 2025, which featured segments by Rima Das, Onir, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan, the anthology is set to explore new dimensions of cross-cultural storytelling. This time, Rajkumar Hirani, Anjali Menon, Shoojit Sircar, and Onir will collaborate to create a series of short films that delve into diverse human experiences within the vibrant backdrop of Melbourne, Australia.
Mitu Bhowmick Lange of Mind Blowing Films, the driving force behind the project, expressed her excitement about the second chapter. She noted that the overwhelming response to the first film demonstrated the power of authentic storytelling to transcend borders. According to her, this project celebrates inclusivity and collaboration between India and Australia, and it has provided an opportunity to work with emerging creatives from underrepresented communities.
The first "My Melbourne" anthology explored themes of identity, gender, race, sexuality, and disability, garnering critical acclaim in both India and Australia. The upcoming installment aims to build upon this foundation, promising to deliver a fresh perspective on the complexities of human connection and cultural identity.
Each of the four directors brings a unique vision and storytelling style to the project. Rajkumar Hirani, known for his heartwarming and socially relevant films such as the "Munna Bhai" franchise and "3 Idiots," expressed his enthusiasm for being part of a project that uses cinema to explore diverse human experiences while connecting two cultures. Anjali Menon, celebrated for her nuanced and character-driven narratives in films like "Bangalore Days," emphasized that the themes and intention behind "My Melbourne" align deeply with the kind of stories she loves to tell – ones that build empathy and bring people closer.
Shoojit Sircar, acclaimed for his realistic and thought-provoking films like "Piku" and "October," highlighted the universal nature of local storytelling, suggesting that the anthology will resonate with audiences worldwide. Onir, who returns for the second chapter, shared his excitement about continuing to explore diverse narratives within the "My Melbourne" framework.
The original "My Melbourne" featured a collection of short films inspired by true incidents in Melbourne, each addressing themes of diversity and belonging. For instance, "Nandini," directed by Onir, followed the emotional reunion of a queer Indian man and his estranged father in Melbourne. Other stories explored the experiences of a deaf dancer, an Afghan girl rebuilding her life after fleeing the Taliban, and a newly-married woman forming an unlikely bond with a homeless person.
The release of the first "My Melbourne" also celebrated the efforts made by the Indian and Australian governments to strengthen cultural ties and the co-production treaty signed in 2023. By bringing together talented filmmakers and showcasing diverse stories, the anthology serves as a testament to the power of cinema to foster understanding and bridge cultural divides. The second installment is highly anticipated, promising to further enrich the cinematic landscape with its unique blend of Indian and Australian perspectives.
