The International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) has always been one of the most prestigious platforms to celebrate the best in Indian cinema, and the 2024 edition was no exception. Held in a grandiose setting, the IIFA 2024 saw some of Bollywood’s finest talents being recognized for their contributions over the past year. The event was a star-studded affair, with Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji bagging the top acting honors, while Animal swept several awards, emerging as one of the biggest winners of the night. Shah Rukh Khan, often referred to as the “King of Bollywood,” has been a defining force in the Indian film industry for decades. His win for Best Actor at the IIFA 2024 was a well-deserved recognition of his stellar performance in Pathaan. The film, which was one of the highest-grossing movies of 2024, saw Khan in a dynamic role that combined action, emotion, and his signature charisma. Pathaan marked Shah Rukh Khan’s much-anticipated return to the silver screen after a brief hiatus. Fans had eagerly awaited his comeback, and Pathaan delivered in every aspect. The film not only shattered box office records but also reminded audiences of Khan’s ability to effortlessly blend commercial appeal with nuanced acting. His portrayal of the titular character was filled with depth, as he brought a combination of vulnerability and strength to the role. Shah Rukh’s win at IIFA 2024 further solidifies his place as one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema, with his star power still reigning supreme after more than three decades in the industry. Rani Mukerji, another stalwart of Bollywood, took home the Best Actress award for her performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. The film, a moving tale of a mother’s fight against a foreign government for her children, saw Mukerji deliver one of the finest performances of her career. Known for her ability to portray complex characters with depth and conviction, Mukerji’s portrayal of Debika Chatterjee, a Bengali woman battling the Norwegian legal system, resonated with audiences across the globe. Mukerji’s win at IIFA 2024 is a testament to her versatility as an actress. Over the years, she has played a wide variety of roles, from romantic leads to gritty, hard-hitting characters. In Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, her emotional range was on full display, as she took viewers on a heart-wrenching journey of love, loss, and resilience. The film highlighted her capacity to carry an entire narrative on her shoulders, proving that even after decades in the industry, Rani Mukerji continues to be one of the most formidable talents in Indian cinema. While individual performances by Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji were undoubtedly celebrated, the night truly belonged to Animal, which swept several awards, solidifying its status as one of the most successful films of 2024. Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Ranbir Kapoor, the movie was a massive hit both critically and commercially. Animal is a crime drama that delves deep into the complexities of family, loyalty, and vengeance. Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of a conflicted man caught between his moral compass and the violent world he inhabits was widely praised. Kapoor, who has consistently pushed the boundaries of his craft, delivered one of his career-best performances, earning him the Best Actor (Critics) award
IIFA 2024 full list of winners: Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji bag best actors, Animal wins big
The film also won in various technical categories, including Best Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Background Score. Its gripping narrative, stellar performances, and flawless technical execution made Animal a standout film of the year. The movie’s success at IIFA 2024 reflects not just the talent of its cast and crew but also the growing appetite for more intense, character-driven stories in Bollywood. While Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Animal dominated the headlines, the IIFA 2024 also recognized several other talented individuals and films. In the Best Supporting Actor category, Vicky Kaushal took home the award for his role in Sam Bahadur, a biopic based on the life of India’s legendary military leader, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. Kaushal’s portrayal of the stoic and courageous Sam Bahadur struck a chord with both critics and audiences. The IIFA for Best Music went to the musical duo of Pritam and Amitabh Bhattacharya for their work on Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, a film that celebrated the classic Bollywood formula of love, drama, and music. The film’s songs became anthems for audiences, and its soundtrack was one of the most successful of the year. The IIFA 2024 also honored legendary actress Asha Parekh with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Parekh, a veteran of Indian cinema, has contributed immensely to the industry over the decades. Known for her roles in classics like Teesri Manzil, Kati Patang, and Caravan, Parekh has been a trailblazer for actresses in Indian cinema. Her contribution goes beyond acting, as she has also been a film producer, director, and the first female Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification in India. The award was a fitting tribute to her illustrious career and her continued influence on Bollywood. In addition to the major awards, IIFA 2024 also celebrated the often-unsung heroes of filmmaking—the technical crew. The Best Cinematography award went to Ravi Varman for Animal, whose visual storytelling played a significant role in the movie’s success. The action sequences, emotional scenes, and even the most minute details were captured with such precision that it enhanced the entire viewing experience. The Best Editing award was given to Aarif Sheikh for Dunki. Editing can make or break a film, and in Dunki, Sheikh’s editing kept the narrative tight and engaging, contributing to the movie’s critical acclaim. Meanwhile, the Best Choreography award went to Bosco-Caesar for the electrifying dance numbers in Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, a film that brought back the exuberant song-and-dance tradition of Bollywood. The IIFA 2024 ceremony was more than just an awards show; it was a celebration of the magic of cinema. The event was marked by spectacular performances from some of Bollywood’s biggest stars, including a mesmerizing dance routine by Hrithik Roshan.