MUMBAI: The 2013 Festival programme of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne has been launched here by Australian Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business Louise Asher and actor Vidya Balan, ambassador of the Festival.

“The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is a wonderful demonstration of our growing cultural links and shows the creativity and innovations that Melbourne and Mumbai are both famous for.” Ms Asher said.

Speaking at the event, Balan said she was delighted to be the ambassador for such a vibrant and exciting festival showcasing the best that Indian Cinema has to offer. “Kolkata is my first home and Melbourne is like a second home to me and I look forward to being back, and watch some interesting cinema. I certainly do not want to miss Raja Harishchandra (1913) on the big screen.”

On a lighter note, she pointed out that she would be more than willing to accept if she were to be made lifetime Ambassador for the festival in Melbourne. “This would provide me even more opportunities to visit Melbourne,” the actress quipped.

To be held in April 2013, the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will showcase the diversity of Indian film culture to Victorian audiences through some choice films.

The industry event also remembered legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, with the Minister announcing that the Festival will pay a rich tribute to the veteran filmmaker next year.

“Mr Chopra had a deep relationship with Victoria as he was a Patron of the Festival and he shot two of his blockbusters -- Salaam Namaste and Chak De India – in Victoria. The Festival is honoured to be showcasing Mr Chopra’s masterpieces,” Ms Asher added.