The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards 2025 already start today, March 8, and The Pink City is in full action! The Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC) in Sitapura has organized this amazing two-day event for March 8 and 9, and one thing is for sure, Jaipur becomes a star place to be for two days. The Indian Film Industry’s top stars are already seen flying to Jaipur, it looks like the city is now a very shiny and glamorous hub. From your very first moment here in Jaipur these days, the IIFA fever is all over the place—you can see fans lining up, cameras flashing, and the energy is amazing.
A few of the heavyweight names in the industry landed with great fanfare on Friday at Jaipur International Airport. Imagine Shah Rukh Khan waving his hand to thousands of screaming fans; Kartik Aaryan flashing his smile; Shahid Kapoor just looking cool with that trademark attitude; and, of course, Karan Johar waving his hand with the same signature persona. And really, it didn’t end there. Also came in Shreya Ghoshal, Sachin-Jigar, and girls Karishma Tanna and Nimrat Kaur. Fans camped outside just to catch a glimpse of their favorites, snapping pictures and videos to contribute to social media with #IIFA2025 moments. Well, this weekend definitely belongs to Jaipur!
Madhuri Dixit and Nushrratt Bharuccha Steal the Spotlight
Madhuri Dixit’s performance might just be the biggest highlight of IIFA 25. The dancing queen will capitalize on the stage’s goodwill with a Rajasthani twist by performing Ghoomar from Padmaavat. I mean, what else could send thrills down your spine? She was rehearsing on Thursday with songs like Hey, Dola Re Dola Re, Badi Mushkil Baba Badi Mushkil, and Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai. To see Madhuri merge Bollywood magic with the folkful aura of Rajasthan is gonna be golden-a real treat for the audience!
Meanwhile, Nushrratt Bharuccha is working hard to make Rajasthan’s name. On Friday, she was busy shooting at the picturesque Amer Fort for a campaign to promote tourism in the state. This clever-mixing Bollywood attractiveness with Rajasthan’s ancient heritage-will surely go places. Speaking of charm, Shreya Ghoshal, while sharing how dear IIFA has been for her all these years, mentioned that she felt tied to this event. So did Karishma Tanna, clearly on cloud nine to be part of IIFA 25, a sentiment expressed in less than suppressed excitement. Actually, who wouldn’t feel excited?
Jaipur’s Local Talent Shines Bright
And it’s not that steals the limelight but Jaipur is its own artists getting their moment in the sun. This Kathak dancer is Anushka Sharma (no, this isn’t that Anushka Sharma!) coming onto the IIFA stage on March 9 for the main awards night. The act she has put together for the opening is absolutely wonderful, featuring over 350 Rajasthani performers showcasing some traditional forms like Kathak, Ghoomar, Chhau, Bhavai, and Ger. It starts with Padharo Mhare Des…and meanders into soulful notes such as Dama Dam Mast Kalandar and Kesariya Balam. They have been rehearsing for days, under the direction of Maitreyi pahari, to ensure it’s going to be a jaw-dropping spectacle.
Anushka termed it as a ‘big milestone’, and you can hear the pride-in beaming cause she knows this will prove to be a defining moment in her career. She is very excited to show the world the art and culture of Rajasthan on this grand stage. Other local talents featuring in this glorious opening act are Vaishali Surolia, Ritika Soni, Deepa, Bhumika Nirvan, and Namra Khan. It’s such a lovely sight to see home-grown talents from Jaipur sharing their limelight with their Bollywood counterparts. IIFA 2025 is not just about celebrating Indian cinema- it’s a love letter to the vibrant spirit of Rajasthan.
