Actor Pankaj Tripathi will be honoured with the Artist of Distinction award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2026.

As per a press release, the honour will be presented to celebrate the actor’s “exceptional contribution to Indian cinema and his remarkable journey as one of the country's most respected performers”. This will also be the first time the National Award-winning actor will attend the festival and receive the honour in Melbourne, Australia.

Known for his ground-bnreaking roles in films such as Gangs of Wasseypur, Newton, and Stree, and shows like Mirzapur, Sacred Games and Criminal Justice, among others, Pankaj said that it is "truly special and incredibly meaningful" to receive the award. ”As an actor, I have always believed that stories have the extraordinary power to transcend boundaries, connect hearts and bring people closer, irrespective of language or geography. To have my journey be recognised on an international platform like IFFM. Every milestone in my career has been possible because of the trust and collaboration of filmmakers, writers, directors, fellow actors, technicians and, above all, the audiences who have embraced my work with so much love. This recognition belongs as much to them as it does to me."

"Coming from a small village in Bihar, I never imagined that the stories I would become a part of would one day travel across the world and be celebrated in this manner," he added.

Mitu Bowmick Lange, the director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, called Pankaj among the finest actors of the generation. "An artist whose performances transcend language, geography and culture. His extraordinary ability to bring authenticity, empathy and quiet power to every character has made him one of the most respected voices in Indian cinema today. It is our absolute privilege to honour Pankaj Tripathi with the 'Artist of Distinction' Award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne," she said.

"The recognition celebrates not only his remarkable body of work but also his immense contribution to storytelling that resonates with audiences across the world. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of India's most acclaimed actors is deeply inspiring and reflects the transformative power of cinema," she added.

The festival will take place in Melbourne, Austrailia from August 13-23. It will bring together a diverse line-up of films, filmmakers, actors and industry talent from across India and the world.

Published - July 27, 2026 04:28 pm IST