Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is set to host the prestigious 25th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards from March 7 to 9, 2025, at the JECC Sitapura. The announcement was made during a formal agreement signing ceremony at the iconic Albert Hall on Sunday, in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Rajasthan Tourism Commissioner VP Singh and IIFA Vice President Suresh Iyer, marking the beginning of preparations for this grand event.
Government’s Financial Commitment
The Rajasthan government has committed a total budget of ₹100 crore for the event, with contributions from multiple sectors—₹50 crore from the state government, ₹20 crore from Rajasthan Industrial and Investment Corporation (RIICO), and ₹30 crore from the tourism department. Officials believe this large-scale event will greatly benefit the state’s tourism and cultural industries.
A Golden Opportunity for Rajasthan
Deputy CM Diya Kumari emphasized the significance of the IIFA Awards returning to India, particularly to Rajasthan, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. She congratulated the people of Rajasthan, stating that the event would bring global attention to the state. “This is a huge moment for all Rajasthani people, and we couldn’t have imagined such a big entertainment event being held in Jaipur,” she said. Diya Kumari further highlighted that the event will play a crucial role in promoting Rajasthan’s tourist destinations, both popular and lesser-known, on a global platform. She also mentioned that the IIFA Awards will provide opportunities for film directors and producers to consider Rajasthan for future film shootings, further enhancing the state’s appeal as a film shooting destination.
IIFA Digital Awards: A New Addition
The 2025 edition of the IIFA Awards will also introduce the inaugural IIFA Digital Awards, celebrating the best performances in digital entertainment, including films and OTT content. This new category is a testament to the growing influence of digital media in the entertainment industry and will be a significant addition to the event.
Empowering Rajasthan’s Economy and Tourism
Diya Kumari emphasized that the IIFA Awards 2025 will not only boost Rajasthan’s global image but also provide new employment and investment opportunities. With the presence of international film stars, directors, and producers, the event is expected to create avenues for economic growth and tourism development. “When film stars and directors come here and see the locations and historical places of Rajasthan, more film shootings will take place, leading to new job and investment opportunities,” she said. This aligns with the government’s broader goals of increasing tourism revenue and attracting global investors to Rajasthan.
IIFA’s Global Legacy
The IIFA Awards, first held in London in 2000, have evolved into a globally recognized platform for celebrating Indian cinema and its influence on international audiences. Over the past two decades, the IIFAs have been hosted in 14 countries and 18 cities worldwide, showcasing Indian cinema’s growing global appeal. The 2025 edition in Jaipur marks a special milestone as it celebrates 25 years of IIFA, recognizing the accomplishments of Indian cinema in the new millennium. The event will feature a series of celebrations and awards, culminating in performances by leading Bollywood celebrities and the presentation of honors to the industry’s finest.
Rising Rajasthan Initiative
As part of the larger strategy to promote Rajasthan’s global image, Diya Kumari announced the Rising Rajasthan initiative, which will be held in December 2024. This initiative, tied to the IIFA event, aims to showcase Rajasthan as a rising power in tourism, culture, and business, further enhancing the state’s investment and branding prospects.
Summing Up
With the 25th edition of the IIFA Awards set to take place in Jaipur, Rajasthan is poised to receive a significant boost in tourism, investment, and global recognition. The event will not only celebrate Indian cinema but also provide a platform for Rajasthan to showcase its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and historical significance. The IIFA Awards in Jaipur will be a momentous occasion, marking the state’s rise as a global destination for tourism and entertainment.