The 2025 International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, held in a star-studded ceremony in Jaipur, witnessed Kiran Rao’s critically acclaimed film ‘Laapataa Ladies’ sweeping 10 awards, including Best Picture and Best Direction.

The film, which was also India’s official entry to the Oscars, won in all major categories, solidifying its status as one of the most celebrated movies of the year.

Kiran Rao’s Emotional Acceptance Speech

Accepting the Best Director award, Rao expressed her gratitude:

“It’s a rare privilege to win an award for a film like ‘Laapataa Ladies.’ More than the awards, the biggest joy is when people tell us they’ve watched the film multiple times. That’s what a filmmaker lives for.”

Meanwhile, Nitanshi Goel, who played the role of the lost bride Phool, won Best Actress for her powerful performance.

An emotional Goel reflected on her journey:

“I grew up watching the IIFA Awards on TV, never imagining that one day, I’d be standing here on this stage.”

She encouraged aspiring actors, referencing Shah Rukh Khan’s iconic dialogue from ‘Om Shanti Om’:

“If you truly want something, the whole universe conspires to make it happen. If I can be here, you can too. Dream big, and they will come true.”

Kartik Aaryan Wins Best Actor for ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’

Kartik Aaryan clinched Best Actor for his performance in ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’, marking a major milestone in his career.

The actor, who also co-hosted the event with Karan Johar, spoke about the challenges he faced stepping into the franchise after Akshay Kumar:

“When I was cast in ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2,’ people doubted whether I could carry the franchise forward. The same happened with ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.’ But the love from audiences kept us going.”

He thanked his fans for their unwavering support, making his win even more special.

Other Major Award Winners

Best Supporting Actor (Male) – Ravi Kishan (Laapataa Ladies)
Best Supporting Actor (Female) – Janki Bodiwala (Shaitaan)
Best Debut (Male) – Lakshya Lalwani (Kill)
Best Debut (Female) – Pratibha Ranta (Laapataa Ladies)
Best Directorial Debut – Kunal Kemmu (Madgaon Express)
Best Performance in a Negative Role – Raghav Juyal (Kill)

Technical & Music Awards

Best Story (Original): Biplab Goswami (Laapataa Ladies)
Best Story (Adapted): Shriram Raghavan & team (Merry Christmas)
Best Screenplay: Sneha Desai (Laapataa Ladies)
Best Editing: Jabeen Merchant (Laapataa Ladies)
Best Dialogue: Article 370 writing team

Best Music: Ram Sampath (Laapataa Ladies)
Best Lyrics: Prashant Pandey (Sajni – Laapataa Ladies)
Best Singer (Male): Jubin Nautiyal (Dua – Article 370)
Best Singer (Female): Shreya Ghoshal (Ami Je Tomar 3.0 – Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3)

Best Cinematography: Rafey Mahmood (Kill)
Best Sound Design: Subash Sahoo & team (Kill)
Best Choreography: Bosco-Caesar (Tauba Tauba – Bad Newz)
Best VFX: Red Chillies VFX (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3)

Rakesh Roshan Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

The Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema award was presented to veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan. The legendary Rekha did the honors, making it a nostalgic and emotional moment for Bollywood.

A Night of Celebration & Cinematic Excellence

With ‘Laapataa Ladies’ dominating the night, Kartik Aaryan and Nitanshi Goel’s big wins, and legendary performances, IIFA 2025 was a grand celebration of Indian cinema’s finest talents.