2nd July 2024: Under the honourable patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance & Coexistence, IIFA Utsavam is set to showcase the brilliance of South Indian cinema’s multifaceted powerhouses in a breath-taking two-day extravaganza on September 6th and 7th, 2024, at the Middle East’s largest indoor entertainment venue, Etihad Arena, In Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The highly-anticipated IIFA Utsavam 2024 is being held in partnership with The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi.
Honouring the remarkable achievements and triumphs of South Indian cinema, IIFA Utsavam shines a spotlight on the Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada film industries, bringing together four major industries and showcasing their rich tapestry of talent, creativity, and storytelling to a global audience.
Kicking off the grand celebration of South Indian cinema in the vibrant city of Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, IIFA Utsavam’s global edition introduces the ‘Woman Of The Year’ in Indian Cinema award to honour and recognize the exceptional achievements and contributions of women in the film industry. It stands as a tribute to those who have broken barriers, sparked change, and set new standards of excellence. IIFA Utsavam to pay homage to Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s remarkable achievements, lauding her significant contributions to Indian cinema, particularly within the Tamil and Telugu industry.
A powerhouse in the South Indian film industry, Samantha Ruth Prabhu and recipient of numerous notable accolades, is poised to receive the prestigious ‘Woman Of The Year’ in Indian Cinema award for her exceptional and ongoing contributions to the media industry. This honour will be bestowed upon her at IIFA Utsavam 2024, held at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
A prominent figure in the South Indian film industry, the sensational and accomplished actress has mesmerized audiences worldwide with her talent and elegance, quickly rising to become one of the most sought-after actresses in the Telugu and Tamil industries since her debut. Beyond her box-office success, Samantha is celebrated as a versatile performer and dedicated philanthropist, earning widespread admiration for her compassionate nature and commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Upon receiving the IIFA Utsavam Special Honour for Woman Of The Year in Indian Cinema, celebrated actress and fan favourite, Samantha Ruth Prabhu conveyed, “Thanks IIFA Utsavam for giving me the honour of The Woman Of The Year in Indian Cinema award. IIFA Utsavam has always been special and I’m so glad to join its global tour that spotlights the rich tapestry of creativity and storytelling from South Indian Cinema to a worldwide audience. It’s also a gentle reminder for me as an artist and a woman to continue pushing my boundaries and embrace the endless possibilities that this incredible journey offers.”
Andre Timmins, Founder/Director, IIFA Utsavam added saying, “Samantha Ruth Prabhu is a powerhouse in the South Indian film industry, a beloved favourite among fans who stands as a shining example of dedication to her craft, inspiring aspiring actors with her unwavering commitment.
As one of the most sought-after actresses of the generation, her remarkable journey in Indian cinema has been an extraordinary testament to her versatility, dedication, and an indelible ability to deeply connect with audiences through captivating performances and daring, unconventional roles.
At IIFA Utsavam, we are proud to celebrate her exceptional contributions to Indian cinema, particularly in Tamil and Telugu industries, acknowledging her profound impact beyond the screen, leaving a legacy in cinema and philanthropy, earning admiration for her dedication to social causes and driving positive change.”
Join us for an unparalleled cinematic celebration on September 6th and 7th, 2024, at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, as IIFA Utsavam 2024 unveils a spectacular lineup of hosts and performances, showcasing the excellence of South Indian cinema. The grand opening on day one will spotlight awards and performances in Tamil and Malayalam, while the following day will be exclusively dedicated to Telugu and Kannada.