The much-awaited IIFA (International Indian Film Academy) 2025 celebrations kicked off on a high note in Jaipur, with the spotlight on the burgeoning world of digital entertainment.
The event began with the announcement of winners in the OTT (Over-the-Top) category, where streaming giants Amazon Prime Video and Netflix dominated the proceedings, securing numerous awards. The recognition reflected the growing influence and success of digital platforms, which have continued to reshape the entertainment industry, especially in recent years.
Among the major winners were Panchayat, a popular series that garnered widespread praise, and Amar Singh Chamkila, a film that took home several accolades. These two titles emerged as the biggest winners of the night, signaling their strong presence in the digital space. The event also brought together a mix of familiar faces from both the big screen and digital platforms, with actors, directors, and producers celebrating their achievements in the ever-expanding world of streaming.
In addition to the awards, the atmosphere at IIFA 2025 was electric, with stars like Shah Rukh Khan receiving a superstar's welcome and Madhuri Dixit dazzling the crowd with her charm. Kareena Kapoor Khan also left an impression with her adorable moments, accompanied by her children. But it was the recognition of exceptional talent in the digital sphere that took center stage at the event.
IIFA 2025 Digital Awards: The Full List of Winners
The IIFA Digital Awards highlighted excellence in both film and series categories. With the ever-growing popularity of OTT platforms, the awards demonstrated just how much the digital space has transformed the entertainment industry. Below is the full list of winners:
Film Category:
- Best Film: Amar Singh Chamkila
Amar Singh Chamkila stole the spotlight as the best film of the year. Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the film earned recognition for its compelling storytelling and powerful performances, making it one of the standout productions in the OTT film category. - Performance in a Leading Role, Female (Film): Kriti Sanon for Do Patti
Kriti Sanon was awarded the Best Actress honor for her remarkable portrayal in Do Patti. Her performance resonated deeply with audiences, earning her this prestigious recognition at the IIFA Digital Awards. - Performance in a Leading Role, Male (Film): Vikrant Massey for Sector 36
Vikrant Massey's portrayal in Sector 36 earned him the Best Actor award in the film category. His exceptional talent and nuanced performance in the film were widely praised by critics and viewers alike. - Best Direction (Film): Imtiaz Ali for Amar Singh Chamkila
Imtiaz Ali's direction of Amar Singh Chamkila earned him the Best Direction award, with the film showcasing his signature storytelling style and artistic vision that captivated audiences. - Performance in a Supporting Role, Female (Film): Anupriya Goenka for Berlin
Anupriya Goenka received the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Berlin. Her performance brought depth and complexity to her character, which earned her recognition at the IIFA Digital Awards. - Performance in a Supporting Role, Male (Film): Deepak Dobriyal for Sector 36
Deepak Dobriyal's performance in Sector 36 secured him the award for Best Supporting Actor. His portrayal of a pivotal character in the film added an extra layer of intrigue and emotion to the narrative. - Best Story Original (Film): Kanika Dhillon for Do Patti
Kanika Dhillon's original story for Do Patti was recognized as one of the best, with her writing capturing the essence of the film and its emotional depth.
Series Category:
- Best Series: Panchayat Season 3
Panchayat Season 3 emerged as the Best Series of the year, a well-deserved win for a show that has won the hearts of audiences with its relatable storytelling and endearing characters. The series continues to be a shining example of the potential of Indian content on digital platforms. - Performance in a Leading Role, Female (Series): Shreya Chaudhry for Bandish Bandits Season 2
Shreya Chaudhry was awarded Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in Bandish Bandits Season 2. Her portrayal of a character caught between tradition and modernity resonated strongly with viewers. - Performance in a Leading Role, Male (Series): Jitendra Kumar for Panchayat Season 3
Jitendra Kumar's performance in Panchayat Season 3 earned him the Best Actor award in the series category. His portrayal of a humble but determined government employee continues to be a fan favorite. - Direction (Series): Deepak Kumar Mishra for Panchayat Season 3
Deepak Kumar Mishra's directorial work on Panchayat Season 3 was widely praised for its seamless blend of comedy and drama. His ability to capture the essence of rural India through engaging narratives made him the rightful winner of the Best Director award in the series category. - Performance in a Supporting Role, Female (Series): Sanjeeda Shaikh for Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar
Sanjeeda Shaikh’s role in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar earned her the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Series. Her performance stood out for its emotional intensity and complexity. - Performance in a Supporting Role, Male (Series): Faisal Malik for Panchayat Season 3
Faisal Malik's portrayal in Panchayat Season 3 earned him the Best Supporting Actor award. His natural and heartfelt performance was one of the key highlights of the series.
Miscellaneous Categories:
- Best Story Original (Series): Kota Factory Season 3
Kota Factory Season 3 won the award for Best Original Story, with its powerful narrative about the struggles of students in Kota resonating deeply with audiences. - Best Reality or Non-scripted Series: Fabulous Lives Vs. Bollywood Wives
The award for Best Reality Series went to Fabulous Lives Vs. Bollywood Wives, a show that gave viewers an inside look into the glamorous world of Bollywood celebrities and their families. - Best Docuseries/Docu Film: Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous
The Best Docuseries award went to Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous, a compelling documentary that gave fans a closer look into the life and career of one of India’s most popular and controversial musicians. - Best Title Track: Anurag Saikia for Ishq Hai from Mismatched Season 3
The award for Best Title Track went to Anurag Saikia for his work on the song Ishq Hai from Mismatched Season 3, a track that became a favorite among listeners for its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics.
What’s Next at IIFA 2025?
The IIFA celebrations are far from over, with the grand IIFA Awards Night scheduled to take place on March 9, 2025. The night promises to be a star-studded event, with an exciting tribute to one of the most iconic films in Indian cinema history—Sholay, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The special screening will take place at the famous Raj Mandir Cinema, adding a nostalgic touch to the event.
In addition to the celebrations, legendary MMA fighter Anthony Pettis will make a special appearance, adding an international flair to the festivities. This year, actor Kartik Aaryan will host the IIFA Awards, ensuring a lively and entertaining evening. The awards show will also feature a stunning performance by Kareena Kapoor Khan, who will not only showcase her dance skills but also pay tribute to her legendary grandfather, filmmaker Raj Kapoor.
As IIFA 2025 unfolds, fans can expect more exciting moments and memorable performances, solidifying the event's place as one of the most significant celebrations of Indian cinema and digital entertainment.
