Jaipur was awash with starlight as the 25th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards concluded in a dazzling ceremony, celebrating the best of Bollywood. This year, Kiran Rao’s heartwarming social drama, “Laapataa Ladies,” emerged as the night’s big winner, sweeping an impressive 10 awards, while Kartik Aaryan’s performance in “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3” earned him the coveted Best Actor title.
The two-day extravaganza, held on March 8th and 9th, 2025, in the vibrant city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, witnessed a confluence of cinematic brilliance, electrifying performances, and emotional moments. The event commenced with the IIFA Digital Awards, honoring excellence in OTT platforms, followed by the grand film awards ceremony that captivated audiences worldwide.
“Laapataa Ladies” Triumphs
Kiran Rao’s “Laapataa Ladies,” a film that resonated deeply with audiences for its sensitive portrayal of rural India and its powerful message of female empowerment, dominated the awards, securing wins in key categories. The film’s accolades included:
- Best Picture: Recognizing the film’s overall excellence.
- Best Direction: Awarding Kiran Rao for her masterful storytelling.
- Best Performance in a Leading Role (Female): Nitanshi Goel’s compelling performance earned her this prestigious award.
- Best Performance in a Supporting Role (Male): Ravi Kishan’s nuanced portrayal was also recognized.
- Best Story (Original) in the Popular Category: Biplab Goswami’s captivating narrative was honored.
- Best Screenplay: Sneha Desai’s skillful writing was celebrated.
- Best Editing: Jabeen Merchant’s precise editing was awarded.
- Best Music Director: Ram Sampath’s musical score was recognized.
- Best Lyrics: Prashant Pandey for (Sajni from Laapataa Ladies)
- Best Debut (Female): Pratibha Ranta.
Kartik Aaryan’s Stellar Performance
Kartik Aaryan’s portrayal in “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3” garnered him the Best Actor award, solidifying his position as one of Bollywood’s leading stars. His performance was widely praised for its versatility and charisma.
Other Notable Wins
The IIFA Awards also celebrated other outstanding contributions to Indian cinema:
- Raghav Juyal received Best Performance In A Negative Role for “Kill”.
- Janki Bodiwala won Best Performance In A Supporting Role (Female) for “Shaitaan”.
- Sriram Raghavan, Arijit Biswas, Pooja Ladha Surti, and Anukriti Pandey won Best Story (Adapted) for “Merry Christmas”.
- Kunal Kemmu received Best Directorial Debut for “Madgaon Express”.
- Lakshya Lalwani won Best Debut (Male) for “Kill”.
- Jubin Nautiyal won Best Singer (Male) for (Dua from Article 370).
- Shreya Ghoshal won Best Singer (Female) (Ami Je Tomar 3.0 from Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3).
- Subash Sahoo, Boloy Kumar Doloi, and Rahul Karpe won Best Sound Design for (Kill).
- Arjun Dhawan, Aditya Dhar, Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Monal Thaakar won Best Dialogue for (Article 370).
- Rafey Mahmood won Best Cinematography for (Kill).
- Bosco-Caesar won Best Choreography (Tauba Tauba from Bad Newz)
- Red Chillies VFX won Best Special Effects for (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3).
- Rakesh Roshan was honoured with the Outstanding Achievement In Indian Cinema award.
A Night of Star-Studded Performances
The awards ceremony was punctuated by captivating performances from some of Bollywood’s biggest names. Highlights included:
- Kareena Kapoor Khan’s heartfelt tribute to her grandfather, the legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor.
- Electrifying performances by Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and Nora Fatehi.
- Kartik Aaryan also gave a well recived performance.
- A much talked about reunion between Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan.
The IIFA Awards 2025 served as a testament to the vibrancy and creativity of the Indian film industry, honoring the talent and dedication of those who bring stories to life on the silver screen.
