The 2024 International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, held in Abu Dhabi, was a star-studded event celebrating the best of Indian cinema. Spanning three days from September 27 to 29, the event brought together Bollywood’s biggest names, including Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Anil Kapoor, and Karan Johar, among others. It was a night filled with glamour, spectacular performances, and memorable speeches. However, the real highlight of the evening was the celebration of films and performances that have made a lasting impact in 2024.
IIFA 2024
The IIFA Awards, one of the most prestigious events in Bollywood, is known for its grandiose and global appeal. This year’s event took place in Abu Dhabi at the Etihad Arena, where the Bollywood elite gathered to witness the best of Indian cinema. With Shah Rukh Khan not only hosting but also winning the Best Actor award for his blockbuster Jawan, the night was full of surprises and celebrations. Rani Mukerji’s emotional performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway earned her the Best Actress award, while Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor, was the big winner, bagging the Best Film award.
The Big Winners of IIFA 2024
Best Film: Animal
Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal emerged as the top film, taking home the Best Film award. The movie, starring Ranbir Kapoor, has been praised for its storytelling, action, and deep emotional arcs, making it a fan favorite. With multiple wins in various categories, Animal dominated the night.
Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan)
Shah Rukh Khan made a grand return to the IIFA stage, not just as a host but as the Best Actor winner for his electrifying performance in Jawan. His portrayal of a vigilante in this high-octane action film was lauded for its intensity and charisma. In his acceptance speech, SRK humbly thanked the other nominees and credited his wife Gauri Khan for her support throughout the film’s production.
Best Actress: Rani Mukerji (Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway)
Rani Mukerji won the Best Actress award for her heart-wrenching role in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. Playing the role of a mother battling a foreign legal system to regain custody of her children, Rani delivered a performance that moved both critics and audiences alike. In her acceptance speech, she dedicated the award to all mothers, emphasizing the emotional depth required to bring such a story to life.
Best Director: Vidhu Vinod Chopra (12th Fail)
Vidhu Vinod Chopra took home the Best Director award for 12th Fail, a biographical film that tells the inspiring story of an underdog’s journey through the UPSC examination to become an IPS officer. The film, starring Vikrant Massey, was praised for its realistic portrayal of struggles faced by aspiring civil servants.
Supporting Role Awards
In the supporting role categories, Anil Kapoor won Best Supporting Actor for his role in Animal, while Shabana Azmi won Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. Both actors were praised for their nuanced performances that added depth to their respective films.
Other Notable Wins
- Best Actor in a Negative Role: Bobby Deol (Animal)
Bobby Deol’s menacing portrayal of a ruthless antagonist in Animal earned him the Best Actor in a Negative Role award. - Best Story: Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
This family drama, directed by Karan Johar, won the Best Story award for its fresh and emotional take on love, family, and societal expectations. - Best Adapted Story: 12th Fail
This inspiring story, based on real events, won the Best Adapted Story award. - Best Music: Animal
The music of Animal, composed by a team of talented artists including Pritam and Vishal Mishra, was honored with the Best Music award. The soundtrack, with its emotional and energetic tracks, has become immensely popular. - Best Male Singer: Bhupinder Babbal
Bhupinder Babbal won for the track “Arjan Vailly” from Animal. - Best Female Singer: Shilpa Rao
Shilpa Rao’s soulful rendition of “Chaleya” from Jawan earned her the Best Female Singer award.
Outstanding Contributions and Special Recognitions
In addition to the competitive categories, the night also saw the recognition of some of Bollywood’s most influential figures. Jayantilal Gada and Hema Malini were honored for their outstanding contributions to Indian cinema, celebrating their decades-long careers in the film industry. Meanwhile, Karan Johar received a special achievement award for completing 25 years in the industry, during which he has delivered numerous iconic films that have shaped modern Bollywood.
A Star-Studded Affair
The IIFA Awards are as much about the entertainment and performances as they are about the awards themselves. This year’s ceremony featured high-energy dance performances from stars like Vicky Kaushal, Kriti Sanon, and Shahid Kapoor, with the audience treated to a medley of Bollywood’s biggest hits. Shah Rukh Khan, who also hosted the event, captivated the crowd with his infectious energy, humor, and charisma. His dance performance alongside Vicky Kaushal to the hit track “Jhoome Jo Pathaan” had the entire audience on their feet.
Conclusion
The IIFA Awards 2024 will be remembered not just for the star-studded appearances but for the celebration of some of the finest work in Indian cinema. With Animal winning big and stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji taking home top acting honors, the night was a testament to the diverse and evolving landscape of Bollywood. As the curtains close on another successful IIFA, it’s clear that the magic of Indian cinema continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
