What does being the ambassador of the International Indian Film Academy mean to you?
Amitabh Bachchan: I am very glad that I’ve been associated with IIFA over these years and this is their tenth year in succession. Year after year, IIFA has been to different places across the globe and the amount of enthusiasm and encouragement that IIFA has created, is tremendous. It brings me great pride to be part of IIFA that is looking forward to paint Indian film industry on a global canvas.

What’s the significance of holding the IIFA in Macau?
AB: As I mentioned earlier, this year IIFA celebrates its ten years in existence. It is a grand affair, so there had to be a destination which could convey the significance of celebrating such a great achievement. Macau will also celebrate the tenth anniversary of its establishment, as will The Videocon IIFA Weekend and Idea IIFA Awards. The Venetian is an outstanding place. I had never been to Macau before, and after my first visit I am looking forward to going there again! It’s a great place!

Chinese and Indian culture is very different, how do Chinese audiences receive Indian film?
AB: Today the global film industry scenario has changed; audiences have started appreciating films from different countries. Language is no more a barrier and more importantly audiences have become liberal towards world cinema. That’s the reason Indian film industry today has subsistence on the global platform. Whereas Chinese audience is considered, I think they have started to recognise and appreciate Indian cinema.

How has the Indian film industry changed since you first started?
AB: Indian film industry has changed massively in terms of working, technique and operations. There’s so much of detailing that goes into making a film. Each and every aspect of a film making process is given importance. It’s become so systematic. Varied styles of films are being made. The audience’s preferences have changed and they’ve become more demanding. With multiplexes around and multiple choices of movies, you really have to be good at what you’re doing; so the audience chooses and decides to watch your film over another.

How does Indian cinema bring people together?
AB: The language of cinema is globally understood. Watching a film in India is about getting entertained. When the lights go out in a movie hall and the screen comes alive, you experience tears, joy, laughter and exultation. We are all oblivious about who the person is sitting next to us, as we share common emotions and experiences. Cinema among all else, helps us overcome the divide.

How do you wish to see Indian cinema grow?
AB: I wish to see the Indian film industry be more recognised on the global platform. We are moving towards it with; IIFA has been working for this cause for the last ten years.