The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024 is set to feature the world premiere of the highly anticipated documentary ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing,’ produced by the legendary music maestro AR Rahman.

Directed by Rohit Gupta, the film delves into the rich cultural and musical heritage of Nagaland, exploring the state’s unique journey through rhythm and sound, ANI reported.

AR Rahman, in his statement, expressed his excitement about the film’s premiere at IFFM, saying, “The film is very special to us, as it throws light on the beautiful state of Nagaland and highlights the rich cultural and musical history it contains. Rohit and I are looking forward to the premiere and showcasing it to the audiences in Melbourne.”

‘Headhunting to Beatboxing’ takes viewers on a fascinating journey through Nagaland, tracing the evolution of music across different cultures, tribes, and generations. From the ancient traditions of headhunting tribes to the state’s musical renaissance, the documentary captures the essence of Nagaland’s vibrant soundscape.

Director Rohit Gupta shared his excitement over the film’s screening at IFFM, “We are honoured to be selected in competition at IFFM. I feel the narrative holds global relevance, along with the incredible healing power of music. The film has been painstakingly made over 5 years and I am excited to see the audience’s reactions to it and for them to explore the rich cultural and musical tapestry of Nagaland. Especially to hear a completely new sound coming from India,” Gupta stated.

The documentary is not only premiering at IFFM but is also in the running for the best documentary film award. The festival, known for showcasing diverse and impactful films, will provide a significant platform for ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing’ to reach a global audience.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, IFFM Festival Director, added, “When we saw the documentary, we knew there was something special about it. We are delighted to have the world premiere of the film at IFFM and have Dr Rahman and filmmaker Rohit Gupta present it to our audiences.”

IFFM 2024 will take place from August 15 to August 25, featuring a wide array of films and documentaries that celebrate Indian cinema’s rich and diverse heritage. ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing’ promises to be a highlight of the festival, offering audiences a unique insight into Nagaland’s musical evolution.