The Australia India Film Council (AIFC) has welcomed two new board members, Shreerupa Mitra and Achala Datar, bringing a fresh wave of international experience and cultural fluency to an organisation that has become a key bridge between two dynamic screen industries.
Formed in 2020, the AIFC has steadily positioned itself as a central force in building ties between the Australian and Indian film worlds. With a formal co-production treaty in place and rising audience interest on both sides, the appointments are being viewed as timely and strategic.
Shreerupa Mitra, speaking from Delhi, brings a rare blend of policy expertise, journalism, and on-screen presence. With a background that spans the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum, the U.S.-India Business Council, and the UN press corps in Geneva, her journey has steadily moved from international diplomacy to cinematic storytelling. Recent acting credits in Goutam Ghose’s Miles to Go and an upcoming Indo-French-Sri Lankan feature have only strengthened that crossover.
“With a co-production treaty in place and growing people-to-people ties, this is a ripe moment for India and Australia to write a new cinematic chapter together,” she said. “I am honoured to join AIFC and look forward to helping shape this creative dialogue into something meaningful, sustainable, and truly global.”
Achala Datar, based in Melbourne, brings practical nous and hands-on experience in both Indian and Australian screen environments. Currently leading Zee Studios operations in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, she’s been instrumental in growing the visibility of regional and mainstream Indian cinema across the Pacific. Her earlier work in Indian television, distribution, and media education adds further layers to her understanding of both the industry and its audiences.
“It’s an honour to join the Australia India Film Council,” she said. “I believe deeply in the power of film to connect cultures, and I’m eager to help forge new pathways for collaboration and innovation between our thriving industries.”
For AIFC Chair Anupam Sharma, their appointment reflects the growing depth of collaboration between the two industries. “I have personally observed and benefited from the calibre, commitment, and passion that both Achala and Shreerupa bring to the Australia-India screen space,” he said. “It’s a real privilege to have them on the board, especially at a time when the partnership between our industries is evolving into something much more meaningful and long-term after the co-production treaty.”
Vice Chair Julie Marlow echoed that sentiment, saying: “It’s not just inspiring, it’s vital to see more women with such international depth and creative intelligence step into leadership roles in our industry. Shreerupa and Achala bring a rare combination of strategic foresight and cultural fluency. Their appointment signals the inclusive, forward-looking, and truly global direction AIFC is committed to.”
Khushaal Vyas, a Sydney-based lawyer and the Council’s Chief Operating Officer, said the timing of their appointment couldn’t be better. “The appointment of Achala and Shreerupa comes at a crucial time where Australia-India ties economically, culturally and in film is growing rapidly. We’re very excited to have people of their calibre on board and are confident that their expertise will assist AIFC in continuing to meaningfully grow the council’s impact in policy, projects and beyond.”
Since its founding, the Council has been deeply involved in advising both government and screen bodies, advocating for cross-border cooperation, and helping Australian creatives navigate the complexities of the Indian film ecosystem. Among its key achievements are facilitating Australia’s presence at India’s Film Bazaar, initiating discussions with Indian ministries and major festivals, and mentoring emerging producers and storytellers.
Much of this work has been led by a dedicated team of volunteers, including Executive Volunteers Sadhana Jethanandani and Khushaal Vyas, whose efforts have built momentum behind the scenes.
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