Mumbai (Commonwealth Union)_ The IIFA Utsavam 2024 marked a significant milestone in the realm of Indian cinema, with acclaimed actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu being honored as the ‘Woman of the Year in Indian Cinema.’ This prestigious accolade was awarded during a dazzling ceremony held in Dubai that brought together luminaries from both South Indian and Bollywood cinema. The event showcased the convergence of artistic talent, where stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Vicky Kaushal, and Karan Johar illuminated the stage, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. Fans watched with delight as Samantha graciously accepted her award, a moment that was beautifully captured and shared on the official IIFA Utsavam Instagram account.
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Dressed in an exquisite green shimmery gown, Samantha embodied elegance and charisma, setting a high fashion standard for the evening. In her acceptance speech, she expressed her gratitude and reflected on her journey in the industry, stating, “I accept it,” followed by a warm laughter. She reminisced about her past roles, saying, “Even now, when people meet me, they still say that Bindu and Eega are their favorites. I hope to create more work that surpasses those.” Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s recognition stems from her remarkable contributions to both the Tamil and Telugu film industries. Her versatility, commitment to her craft, and philanthropic efforts have positioned her as a transformative figure in Indian cinema.
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The award serves not only as a tribute to Samantha’s accomplishments but also as an acknowledgment of her role as a leader who breaks barriers within the industry. In her heartfelt acceptance of the IIFA Utsavam Special Honour, she remarked, “Thanks, IIFA Utsavam, for giving me the honor of The Woman of the Year in Indian Cinema award. This event has always been special to me, and I’m thrilled to join its global tour that showcases the rich creativity and storytelling from South Indian cinema to a worldwide audience. It serves as a reminder for me as an artist and a woman to continuously push my boundaries and explore the endless possibilities this journey has to offer.”
Andre Timmins, Founder/Director of IIFA Utsavam, praised Samantha as a “powerhouse in the South Indian film industry,” highlighting her status as a beloved figure among fans. He emphasized her dedication to her craft and her ability to inspire aspiring actors through her captivating performances and unconventional roles. The IIFA Utsavam, part of the larger International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, was held from September 27th to 29th at the Etihad Arena in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. This year’s event marked the third showcase of the IIFA Awards, celebrating the best of Indian cinema over a vibrant three-day festival.
As the event unfolded, the star-studded lineup continued to entertain. The second day witnessed the return of Rekha to the IIFA stage, alongside a host of popular actors such as Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Ananya Panday, and Vicky Kaushal, who captivated the audience with their performances. The IIFA 2024 concluded with an exclusive IIFA Rocks gala on September 29, featuring live performances by celebrated artists like Honey Singh, Shilpa Rao, and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, encapsulating the spirit of Indian cinema in a spectacular fashion. With events like these, the IIFA Utsavam continues to honor the rich tapestry of creativity and storytelling that defines South Indian and Bollywood cinema.
