RAIED SHUQUM (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi is set to host the Indian film industry, IIFA Rocks, a star-studded musical extravaganza at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island, on September 29. The event is part of the larger International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, which annually honours the best in Indian cinema.
IIFA Rocks is renowned for its unique blend of music and fashion, creating a platform where the biggest names in Bollywood come together to celebrate their craft. It was first introduced as part of the IIFA Weekend, which began in 2000.
Since its inception, it has become a highlight of the IIFA festivities, showcasing the best of Bollywood’s musical and fashion talents.
The evening will begin with the green carpet arrivals, where celebrities will showcase their stunning outfits, setting the tone for a night of high fashion and style. The green carpet is a signature element of the IIFA events, symbolising the organisation’s commitment to environmental sustainability. As the stars make their way into the arena, fans and photographers will have the opportunity to witness the glamour and excitement up close.
This year’s event promises live performances by some of the industry’s most talented musicians and singers, including the renowned musical trio Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy, Yo Yo Honey Singh, Shilpa Rao, and Iulia Vântur. Hosting duties will be shared by Siddhant Chaturvedi, Shah Rukh Khan, Karan Johar, Rana Daggubati, and Abhishek Banerjee.
Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy, comprising Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani, and Loy Mendonsa, have been a formidable force in the Indian music industry since the late 1990s. Their breakthrough came with the soundtrack for “Dil Chahta Hai” (2001), and they have since composed music for over 50 soundtracks across multiple languages, earning numerous awards for their unique blend of Indian classical, rock, and world music.
Yo Yo Honey Singh, a prominent figure in the Indian music scene, is known for his contributions to rap, pop, EDM, hip-hop, Bhangra, and R&B. His album “International Villager” (2011) and the hit track “Gabru” catapulted him to fame, and his collaborations with artists like Diljit Dosanjh have further solidified his position.
Shilpa Rao, celebrated for her versatile voice and emotive singing style, began her career with the hit song “Tose Naina” from the film Anwar (2007). Her collaborations with composers like Ilaiyaraaja and Amit Trivedi have earned her critical acclaim and multiple award nominations.
Iulia Vântur, a multifaceted Romanian personality, has made her mark as a television presenter, model, actress, and singer. Her connection to Bollywood, particularly through her relationship with Salman Khan, has brought her significant attention in India, where she has collaborated on various projects.
In addition to the musical performances, IIFA Rocks also serves as a platform to honour the technical brilliance behind the scenes of Indian cinema. Awards will be presented to the creative minds who contribute to the magic of filmmaking, including categories such as Best Choreography, Best Sound Design, and Best Cinematography. These awards recognise the hard work and dedication of the professionals who often remain behind the scenes but are essential to the success of any film.
The event will also feature a special segment dedicated to fashion, where some of the industry’s top designers will showcase their latest collections. This segment will highlight the close relationship between fashion and film, demonstrating how the two industries influence and inspire each other.
A testament to the enduring appeal of Bollywood and its ability to bring people together through the universal language of music and dance, the event aims to foster cultural exchange and strengthen ties between India and the UAE. By hosting IIFA Rocks in Abu Dhabi, the organisers hope to showcase the rich cultural heritage of both nations and promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indian cinema among international audiences.