Rekha to receive Excellence in Cinema honour at Melbourne’s film festival

Rekha will be honoured with the Excellence in Cinema Award at this year’s Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), with the organisers confirming her appearance as the festival’s Guest of Honour.

The veteran actor will attend a special screening of ‘Umrao Jaan’ and take part in the festival’s annual Independence Day celebrations, where she will hoist the Indian National Flag. IFFM said the award recognises her “extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema across five decades”, positioning her as the centrepiece of the festival’s 2026 programme.

Rekha described the honour as “humbling and moving”, noting that “cinema has been my life’s greatest blessing” as she prepares to join audiences in Melbourne for the tribute.

Her presence is expected to drive significant attention to the festival, which continues to expand its international footprint and industry engagement.