The Indian Film Festival Melbourne (IIFM) awards for this year came with a twist – the entire festival revolved around the theme of ‘Equality’. Right from sexuality to religion, the IIFM wanted to emphasize on the role that cinema has always played to create a more hospitable environment for those that dare to be different.

And the event turned out to be a very glamorous affair. A lot of famous producers, designers, directors, actors and critics gathered in Melbourne to make their presence felt. Rajkumar Hirani, Anil Kapoor, Kangana Ranaur, Imran Khan, Simi Garewal and Sonam Kapoor were a few of the most recognized names at the awards function. And while Bollywood ladies looked extremely pretty in their dazzling outfits, it was Sonam Kapoor who stole the show.

The GQ woman of the year’s presence was most felt when she stepped forward as Anamika Khanna’s showstopper. On Day 2 of Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, the actress looked stunning in a white and gold work ensemble with hair that perfectly accentuated her face.

She wore a gorgeous blush-colored gown Paolo Sebastian gown (from his Spring 2015 Couture collection) for her red carpet entry. It featured an embellished lace cape and her look was accentuated with Shruti Shushma Fine Jewellery, rings by Anmol and a clutch from Thale Blanc. For her eyes, her makeup artist opted for the Autumn/Winter favourite – smokey eyes, but with a twist. Glitter pencils were used to create a fun and trendy look to an otherwise mature and trendy look.

The IFFM also showcased the works of 3 Melbourne designers, namely Susan Dimasi, Roopa Pemaraju and Richard Nylon. And true to the theme of the event, one could see models of different races walking down the ramps. Melbourne celebrities included Real Housewives of Melbourne star Lydia Schiavello and ABC journalist Del Irani.

There was a great sense of anticipation as numerous national and international fashion bloggers, celebrities, and fans arrived to attend the Equality Fashion Show. The award ceremony was presented by film critic Rajeev Masand and Simi Garewal on Saturday night. Here’s their list of winners –

International Film Icon of the Year - Anil Kapoor

Best Actress (Dum Lagake Haisha) - Bhumi Pendakar

Best Actor – Irrfan Khan (Piku) and Shahid Kapoor (Haider)

Best Director (Piku) - Shoojit Sircar

Best Indie Film - Kakka Muthai (Crows’ Eggs)

Telstra People's Choice Award  - PK (awarded to the highest-grossing Indian film in Australia)

After the awards ceremony concluded, an auction took place amongst the attendants of the shows, wherein all the proceeds went to Royal Children's Hospital. Seeing that this happened on the 15^th of August, we can safely say that it was an appropriate ending to an evening full of glamour and glitz.

Picture courtesy- fridaymoviez.com and fashionnstyle.com