The 17th London Indian Film Festival (LIFF) is set to captivate audiences across the UK from July 9-19, with a lineup that includes major cinematic figures and significant retrospectives. A highlight of the festival will be an exclusive 'In Conversation' event with acclaimed Bollywood actor and filmmaker Aamir Khan, scheduled for July 16 at BFI Southbank. This special appearance coincides with a 25th-anniversary screening of his Academy Award-nominated epic, 'Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India,' at BFI Imax on July 12, offering fans a unique opportunity to engage with the cinematic legend.

Complementing these events, the festival will also host a memorable reunion of the beloved 1990s BBC sketch comedy series 'Goodness Gracious Me' cast on July 11 at BFI Southbank, featuring stars like Sanjeev Bhaskar and Meera Syal. Additionally, a newly restored 4K version of Arundhati Roy's cult film, 'In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones,' which premiered at the Berlinale in 2026, will make its UK debut at BFI Southbank and HOME Manchester. This 1989 feature, set in a 1970s Delhi architecture school and written by the Booker Prize laureate herself, offers a rare glimpse into early work, including a small role by Shah Rukh Khan.

LIFF's program extends beyond these central attractions to include other notable segments such as the European premiere of '52 Blue,' directed by Ali El Arabi, which will open the festival on July 9. The festival will also introduce 'India’s AI & Film Future' event, focusing on Indian films integrating AI in their creative process. Further enriching the festival's diverse offerings are the LGBTQIA+ shorts program 'Too Desi Too Queer,' the Satyajit Ray Short Film Competition, and a 'Brit-Asian Shorts' showcase, reflecting the festival's commitment to showcasing varied narratives and emerging talents in South Asian cinema.

The London Indian Film Festival continues to be a vital platform for celebrating the rich and diverse cinematic landscape of South Asia, fostering dialogue, and inspiring new generations of filmmakers and audiences. By bringing together legendary figures, showcasing groundbreaking restorations, and exploring future trends in filmmaking, the festival underscores the power of cinema to unite and enchant. It exemplifies how cultural events can transcend geographical boundaries, promoting understanding and appreciation for artistic expression from different parts of the world, thereby contributing to a more interconnected global community through the shared experience of storytelling.