Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, 58, made a stellar comeback at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, winning Best Actor for his role in the action-packed thriller ‘Jawan’. After co-hosting the event, Khan accepted the prestigious award, marking his return to the spotlight after a lengthy hiatus.
Speaking to the enthusiastic audience in Abu Dhabi, he said, “It’s great to be back,” acknowledging his excitement for the win and the support he’s received from fans. “I love awards, and this one feels special after such a long break.”
The night was filled with remarkable performances and notable wins. Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s ‘Animal’ bagged six awards, including Best Picture and Best Supporting Actor for Anil Kapoor. Meanwhile, Rani Mukerji took home the Best Actress award for her moving role in ‘Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway’, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra earned Best Director for ‘12th Fail’.
Khan’s playful interactions with fellow actor Vicky Kaushal, thrilling dance numbers, and high-energy performances from stars like Shahid Kapoor kept the crowd entertained throughout the five-hour show.
The event showcased Bollywood’s resilience despite facing challenges from regional and independent films, as well as the increasing popularity of streaming platforms. Although box office numbers have seen a dip in 2024, Bollywood remains a cultural powerhouse, continuing to captivate global audiences.
Abu Dhabi hosted IIFA for the third consecutive year, further cementing its role as a key location for the international celebration of Indian cinema.