The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards 2024 celebrated the very best of Hindi cinema on September 28, 2024, in a grand event held in Abu Dhabi. The prestigious awards saw Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, and Shabana Azmi emerge as some of the biggest winners of the night. The event was filled with electrifying performances, heartwarming speeches, and recognition of outstanding contributions to the Indian film industry.
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan clinched the Best Actor award for his powerful performance in Atlee's 2023 blockbuster, Jawan. The award was presented by legendary director Mani Ratnam and musical maestro A.R. Rahman. As Shah Rukh Khan approached the stage, he displayed humility by touching Mani Ratnam’s feet, followed by a warm embrace with Rahman.
In his acceptance speech, Shah Rukh humorously acknowledged his fellow nominees, which included Ranveer Singh, Ranbir Kapoor, Vikrant Massey, Vicky Kaushal, and Sunny Deol. He quipped, "I think all of them were great, but I got an edge because people were happy that I worked after so long." The King of Bollywood also playfully thanked his wife Gauri Khan, who produced Jawan, adding, “Thank you, Gauri, for spending so much on me.”
Rani Mukerji received a thunderous welcome from the audience when she was honored with the Best Actress award for her outstanding portrayal in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. As she took the stage, Rani expressed her gratitude to the audience, thanking them for being a "warm and wonderful" crowd. The critically acclaimed performance has been hailed as one of Rani's finest in recent years, solidifying her status as one of the most talented actresses in Bollywood.
The highly anticipated film Animal, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, was awarded the prestigious Best Film trophy. The movie, which starred Ranbir Kapoor, captured the attention of audiences and critics alike with its intense storyline and stellar performances. Vanga's direction was praised for its bold narrative choices, and the film’s success at IIFA 2024 marks a significant achievement in his career.
Anil Kapoor was awarded Best Supporting Actor for his role in Animal, further showcasing the film's impact. Shabana Azmi took home the award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. Bobby Deol won Best Actor in a Negative Role for his gripping portrayal in Animal, while the Best Director award went to Vidhu Vinod Chopra for his remarkable work in 12th Fail.
The musical landscape was also celebrated, with Animal taking the award for Best Music, while Siddharth-Garima received the Best Lyrics award for the song "Satranga" from the same film. Singers Bhupinder Babbal and Shilpa Rao were recognized for their exceptional vocals in Animal's "Arjan Valley" and Jawan's "Chaleya," respectively.
Best Film: Animal, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan, Jawan
Best Actress: Rani Mukerji, Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway
Best Director: Vidhu Vinod Chopra, 12th Fail
Best Supporting Actor: Anil Kapoor, Animal
Best Supporting Actress: Shabana Azmi, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
Best Actor in a Negative Role: Bobby Deol, Animal
Best Story: Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
Best Adapted Story: 12th Fail
Best Music: Animal
Best Lyrics: Siddharth-Garima, "Satranga" from Animal
Best Male Singer: Bhupinder Babbal, "Arjan Valley" from Animal
Best Female Singer: Shilpa Rao, "Chaleya" from Jawan
Outstanding Contribution to Indian Cinema: Jayantilal Gada, Hema Malini
Achievement on Completing 25 Years in Cinema: Karan Johar
The three-day event in Abu Dhabi culminated in a spectacular showcase of Bollywood's finest talents. The audience was treated to breathtaking performances by actors such as Rekha, Kriti Sanon, and Shahid Kapoor, making it a night of unforgettable moments. The event will officially conclude on September 29 with the highly anticipated IIFA Rocks.