Stars of South Indian cinema light up Yas Island as they celebrate the best of Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam films.
The highly anticipated IIFA Utsavam 2024 brought the grandeur of South Indian cinema to Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena on Yas Island, where the biggest stars of Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam films gathered for a night of celebration, performances, and awards.
As the night unfolded, some of the brightest luminaries in Indian cinema, including the legendary Mani Ratnam, the musical genius AR Rahman, dance icon Prabhu Deva, and megastar Rana Daggubati, graced the stage and the green carpet, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Memorable Moments from the Night
10:54 PM: Prabhu Deva Steals the Show
One of the most anticipated performances of the night, Prabhu Deva took the stage with his signature energy and electrifying dance moves, captivating the audience and reminding everyone why he’s a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
10:41 PM: Ananya Panday’s Fashionably Late Arrival
Bollywood actress Ananya Panday, who is currently riding high on the success of her series Call Me Bae, made a late but stunning entrance on the green carpet. Speaking about her connection to her character, she revealed in an earlier interview how protective she feels towards the role, likening her character to a younger sister.
10:39 PM: Nani Takes Home Best Actor Award
In a thrilling moment, Nani clinched the award for Best Performance in a Leading Role (Male) for his stellar performance in Dasara. The win was met with cheers and applause, further cementing his status as one of the most talented actors in South Indian cinema.
10:28 PM: Varalaxmi Sarathkumar Wins Best Supporting Actress
Varalaxmi Sarathkumar was awarded Best Performance in a Supporting Role (Female) for her powerful portrayal in Veera Simha Reddy. Her acceptance speech reflected her gratitude for the recognition and her love for the craft.
10:13 PM: Star-Studded Green Carpet Walk
Among the dazzling stars who walked the green carpet were Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Rakul Preet Singh, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Aishwarya, glowing from the success of Ponniyin Selvan: II, took a moment to thank her fans for their constant support as the film swept several awards.
Honoring Excellence
The night wasn’t just about entertainment but also about recognizing the industry’s outstanding contributions. One of the most emotional moments was when the iconic Konidela Chiranjeevi received the award for Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema. Presented by the legendary Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi, Chiranjeevi’s acceptance speech was heartfelt as he expressed deep gratitude for the love and support from his fans and the entire industry.
Behind the Scenes
Khaleej Times was present on the ground, capturing the excitement and giving live updates. From interviews with celebrities to snapshots of the event’s most exciting moments, the night was one to remember for South Indian cinema fans around the globe.
With IIFA Utsavam 2024 coming to a close, it was clear that the event was more than just an awards ceremony. It was a celebration of cinematic artistry, cultural heritage, and the unyielding passion that South Indian cinema continues to inspire in millions worldwide.
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