by The International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) 2024 took place in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island on September 28, 2024. This prestigious event brought together some of the biggest names in the Indian film industry to honor outstanding achievements in cinema.
From electrifying performances to emotional victories and record-breaking wins, IIFA 2024 was truly a spectacle. This article explores everything that made this year’s event significant.
The Legacy of IIFA
Founded in 2000, the International Indian Film Academy Awards have played a key role in promoting Bollywood on a global stage. Unlike other Indian film awards, IIFA is unique as it is hosted in different international locations each year, helping expand the reach of Indian cinema.
Over the years, IIFA has been hosted in cities like London, New York, Singapore, Madrid, Bangkok, and Dubai, fostering cultural exchange. This year, Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena at Yas Island set the stage for an evening of cinematic excellence.
A Star-Studded Evening: Hosts and Special Appearances
IIFA 2024 was hosted by Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar, who brought their signature charm, humor, and nostalgic references to Bollywood classics. Their effortless chemistry made the evening even more engaging.
The event witnessed appearances by Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra, among others. The ceremony also featured a heartfelt tribute to Bollywood legends who have contributed significantly to the industry.
Biggest Winners at IIFA 2024
The awards recognized the best performances, films, and technical achievements of the year. Below are the winners in key categories.
Best Film
Winner: Animal
Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Animal was a major box office success. Its gripping narrative, intense performances, and high-octane action sequences made it a standout film.
Best Actor (Male)
Winner: Shah Rukh Khan – Jawan
Shah Rukh Khan delivered a compelling dual performance in Jawan, portraying both Captain Vikram Rathore and Azad. His role was a blend of action, emotion, and charisma.
Best Actress (Female)
Winner: Rani Mukerji – Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway
Rani Mukerji’s portrayal of a mother fighting against a foreign legal system was deeply impactful. Her performance resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Best Supporting Actor (Male)
Winner: Anil Kapoor – Animal
Anil Kapoor’s role in Animal brought depth and emotion to the film, making his win well-deserved.
Best Supporting Actress (Female)
Winner: Kriti Sanon – Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya
Kriti Sanon’s performance balanced humor and emotion, making her a standout in this category.
Best Director
Winner: Sandeep Reddy Vanga – Animal
The director’s ability to blend emotional depth with high-intensity action made Animal a remarkable cinematic experience.
Performances That Stole the Show
One of the major highlights of IIFA is its grand stage performances. This year’s event featured a mix of high-energy dance routines, soulful musical tributes, and dramatic stage acts.
Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh
The Bollywood couple set the stage ablaze with a performance featuring Bollywood’s biggest dance numbers.
Arijit Singh’s Musical Tribute
Playback singer Arijit Singh delivered a tribute to legendary singers, leaving the audience in awe with his soulful melodies.
Shahid Kapoor and Tiger Shroff
Known for their energetic dance moves, the duo performed a choreographed sequence featuring Bollywood’s biggest action anthems.
Special Tribute to Karan Johar’s 25 Years in Bollywood
A segment dedicated to Karan Johar’s contributions to Indian cinema included leading actors recreating iconic moments from his films.
Technical Excellence Recognized
Beyond the major categories, IIFA also celebrated technical brilliance in Indian cinema.
- Best Cinematography – Jawan (G.K. Vishnu)
- Best Choreography – Jhoome Jo Pathaan (Pathaan, Bosco-Caesar)
- Best Story (Original) – Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
- Best Story (Adapted) – 12th Fail
These awards acknowledged the behind-the-scenes talent that plays a crucial role in filmmaking.
Lifetime Achievement Awards
This year, Hema Malini and Jayantilal Gada were honored for their immense contributions to Indian cinema. Their achievements were met with standing ovations, celebrating their lasting impact on the industry.
The Global Influence of IIFA
IIFA is more than an awards ceremony—it is an international platform that showcases Bollywood to a worldwide audience. The event plays a key role in strengthening Bollywood’s global influence by expanding its reach beyond India.
Regions such as the Middle East, Europe, and North America have become significant markets for Bollywood, and IIFA’s presence in Abu Dhabi further strengthened this connection. The event also promoted tourism, benefiting both the Indian film industry and Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island.
Unforgettable Moments from IIFA 2024
Several moments stood out during the ceremony, making IIFA 2024 a truly memorable event.
- Shah Rukh Khan’s Speech: His acceptance speech for Best Actor reflected on his journey and the love he receives from fans.
- Rekha’s Appearance: The legendary actress made a special appearance, captivating the audience.
- Red Carpet Fashion: Alia Bhatt, Deepika Padukone, and Ranveer Singh made bold fashion statements with their outfits.
Why IIFA 2024 Stood Out
This year’s edition was more than just an awards night—it was a celebration of Bollywood’s artistic evolution. Here are some key reasons why IIFA 2024 was unique:
- Global Recognition: IIFA continues to be a bridge between Bollywood and international audiences.
- Diverse Film Selection: The awards honored both commercial hits and critically acclaimed films.
- Technical Excellence: Behind-the-scenes talent was recognized and appreciated.
- Cinematic Tributes: Special segments honored legendary filmmakers and actors.
Final Thoughts on IIFA 2024
IIFA 2024 was a testament to the strength, talent, and global reach of Bollywood. With Animal, Jawan, and Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway dominating the awards, it is clear that 2024 was a significant year for Indian cinema.
As we look forward to IIFA 2025, the industry is set to continue pushing boundaries, creating stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. The glamour, performances, and cinematic brilliance showcased at IIFA 2024 will be remembered for years to come.
