The 2024 International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, a glittering celebration of cinematic brilliance, unfolded with grandeur and flair in Abu Dhabi. The event, held over three days from September 27 to 29, brought together the who’s who of Bollywood, culminating in a glamorous showcase of talent, creativity, and achievements. The Hindi film industry was at the forefront of the celebration, following a successful night honoring South Indian cinema during IIFA Utsavam.
On the final night, Bollywood’s king, Shah Rukh Khan, switched roles from superstar to host, setting the tone for an evening brimming with excitement and spectacular performances. Amidst the glow of sequins and spotlights, stars such as Rekha, Kriti Sanon, Shahid Kapoor, Prabhu Deva, and Ananya Panday stole the show with their electrifying dance numbers, leaving the audience spellbound.
The most anticipated segment of the evening, the announcement of the award winners, did not disappoint. Shah Rukh Khan, riding high on a wave of success with three consecutive blockbusters—Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki—was the recipient of the Best Actor award for his gripping portrayal in the action-thriller Jawan. This accolade affirmed his undisputed reign over Bollywood in 2023.
Equally celebrated was Rani Mukerji, who clinched the Best Actress award for her compelling performance in “Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway.” Mukerji’s role as an immigrant mother fighting against all odds for the custody of her children resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, showcasing her remarkable range and emotional depth as an actress.
The honors for Best Film went to Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Animal,” a high-octane drama that made significant waves at the box office. The film’s triumph underscored Vanga’s exceptional directorial prowess and the collective excellence of its ensemble cast.
Here is the complete list of major winners at the IIFA 2024:
1. **Best Picture**: Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, and Pranay Reddy Vanga for “Animal”
2. **Direction**: Vidhu Vinod Chopra for “12th Fail”
3. **Performance In A Leading Role (Female)**: Rani Mukerji for “Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway”
4.
. **Performance In A Leading Role (Male)**: Shah Rukh Khan for “Jawan”
5. **Performance In A Supporting Role (Female)**: Shabana Azmi for “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani”
6. **Performance In A Supporting Role (Male)**: Anil Kapoor for “Animal”
7. **Performance In A Negative Role**: Bobby Deol for “Animal”
8. **Music Direction**: Pritam, Vishal Mishra, Manan Bhardwaj, Shreyas Puranik, Jaani, Bhupinder Babbal, Ashim Kemson, and Harshavardhan Rameshwar for “Animal”
9. **Playback Singer (Male)**: Bhupinder Babbal for “Arjan Vailly” from “Animal”
10. **Playback Singer (Female)**: Shilpa Rao for “Chaleya” from “Jawan”
The evening also spotlighted accomplished performances that defined the year. Shabana Azmi’s exquisite portrayal in “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” earned her the Best Supporting Actress award, while Anil Kapoor’s powerful performance in “Animal” secured him the Best Supporting Actor title. Bobby Deol’s role as the antagonist in the same film earned him the award for Best Performance in a Negative Role.
In addition to individual acting talent, the music of Bollywood shone brightly. Pritam, alongside a talented ensemble of composers including Vishal Mishra and Manan Bhardwaj, took home the award for Best Music Direction for their work on “Animal.” Bhupinder Babbal was honored as the Best Male Playback Singer for “Arjan Vailly” from “Animal,” while Shilpa Rao’s soulful rendition of “Chaleya” from “Jawan” won her the award for Best Female Playback Singer.
The IIFA Utsavam, which commenced the celebrations, highlighted the brilliance of South Indian cinema, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan taking home a significant award for her performance in “Ponniyin Selvan.” This set a high note for the festivities that followed.
The three-day extravaganza concluded with IIFA Rocks, a by-invitation-only event that saw live performances from industry stalwarts like Honey Singh, Shilpa Rao, and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, adding musical magic to the starry celebration.
The 2024 IIFA awards not only celebrated the achievements of the past year but also underscored Bollywood’s vibrant and dynamic spirit. As the stars gathered under the Abu Dhabi skies, the event affirmed the industry’s commitment to excellence and its ability to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
