IIFA Awards 2025: A Grand Bollywood Celebration in Jaipur

The 25th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards took place in the majestic city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, on March 8 and 9, 2025, marking a historic milestone for both Bollywood and the state of Rajasthan. The silver jubilee edition of IIFA turned the Pink City into a vibrant hub of glamour, culture, and cinematic excellence. The event not only showcased Bollywood’s biggest names but also boosted tourism, investments, and the cultural significance of Rajasthan on a global platform.

Jaipur: A Perfect Host for IIFA 2025

Jaipur, known for its architectural splendor, rich heritage, and royal hospitality, provided an exquisite backdrop for the prestigious awards ceremony. The city’s palatial venues, such as the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal, became hotspots for celebrity visits and exclusive pre-IIFA events. The Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC) served as the main venue, adorned with grand Rajasthani decor, blending tradition with modernity.

Tourism in Rajasthan experienced a significant boost, with thousands of international guests arriving to witness the spectacle. Luxury hotels such as Rambagh Palace, Jai Mahal Palace, and The Oberoi Rajvilas were fully booked, and local markets saw an increase in footfall as visitors indulged in Rajasthani handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles.

Star-Studded Arrivals and Performances

Bollywood’s finest graced Jaipur with their presence. Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Salman Khan, Madhuri Dixit, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Alia Bhatt were among the many celebrities attending the grand celebration. The opening ceremony was a spectacle, with Ranveer Singh performing an energetic tribute to Rajasthan’s folk culture, blending Bollywood dance with traditional Ghoomar and Kalbelia performances.

A Special Tribute: ‘Sholay’ Screening at Rajmandir Cinema

A highlight of the event was the special 50th-anniversary screening of the legendary film ‘Sholay’ at Rajmandir Cinema. The iconic Jaipur theatre, known for its regal architecture, hosted the event, with director Ramesh Sippy and actor Hema Malini in attendance. The screening was accompanied by a panel discussion on the film’s impact on Indian cinema.

Awards and Recognitions: ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Takes Center Stage

The night was dominated by Kiran Rao’s film ‘Laapataa Ladies’, which won ten awards, including Best Picture and Best Direction. The film, rebranded as ‘Lost Ladies’ for its Oscar campaign, highlights themes of patriarchy and gender roles, making a bold statement in contemporary Indian cinema.

Other notable winners included:

• Best Actor (Male): Ranbir Kapoor for ‘Animal’
• Best Actor (Female): Alia Bhatt for ‘Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani’
• Best Supporting Actor: Vicky Kaushal for ‘Sam Bahadur’
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Hema Malini

Rajasthan’s Cultural Extravaganza

To highlight Rajasthan’s cultural heritage, the event featured special performances by local artists. Traditional Kathputli (puppet) shows, Ghoomar dances, and Pabuji Ki Phad storytelling were integrated into the celebrations. Guests were treated to authentic Rajasthani cuisine, including Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas, and Ghewar at exclusive after-parties.

Protests and Security Concerns

Despite the grandeur, the event faced some controversy. A group of local activists organized protests addressing concerns over resource allocation, environmental impact, and the commercialization of cultural heritage. The state government, however, ensured tight security measures to maintain smooth proceedings. The protests were peaceful, and the event continued without disruptions.

Economic Impact and Investment Opportunities

The IIFA Awards 2025 brought significant investments into Rajasthan’s tourism and infrastructure sectors. An estimated INR 500 crore (USD 60 million) revenue was generated, benefiting local businesses, hoteliers, and artisans. The event also attracted foreign direct investment (FDI) in entertainment and hospitality, positioning Jaipur as a future hub for international events.

The Rajasthan government announced plans to develop Jaipur as an ‘Entertainment Capital of India’, with new film studios and cultural centers set to be established. This move is expected to create employment opportunities and boost the local economy.

Global Recognition for Rajasthan and India

The success of IIFA 2025 elevated Rajasthan’s status on the global tourism and film industry map. The event showcased India’s growing influence in international cinema and its ability to host world-class events. With Bollywood expanding its reach beyond Indian shores, Rajasthan is likely to see an increase in film productions, cultural tourism, and global collaborations.

IIFA 2025 in Jaipur was more than just an awards ceremony; it was a celebration of Bollywood, Rajasthan’s culture, and India’s growing global prominence. The event left an indelible mark on Jaipur’s economy, tourism, and film industry, setting a precedent for future international events in India. With its grand success, Rajasthan has proven itself as a world-class venue for entertainment, blending history, culture, and modern cinema in an unforgettable spectacle.