IIFA 2023: Hrithik Roshan and Alia Bhatt take home top acting honours

Abu Dhabi was abuzz with excitement as Hrithik Roshan and Alia Bhatt emerged victorious, taking home the prestigious trophy for Best Actor and Actress in a Leading Role at the International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) 2023 yesterday. Hrithik Roshan won the title for his electrifying performance in the film "Vikram Vedha," while Alia Bhatt won the coveted title for her compelling portrayal in "Gangubai Kathiawadi." However, due to her maternal grandfather's reported illness, producer Jayantilal Gada accepted the award on her behalf.

Veteran actor Anil Kapoor was honored with the award for Performance In A Supporting Role (male) for his performance in the film, "Jug Jugg Jeeyo."

The crime thriller film "Drishyam 2", starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu, and Akshaye Khanna was awarded Best Picture, and R Madhavan won the Best Director trophy for his directorial debut "Rocketry: The Nambi Effect".

Meanwhile, legendary actor Kamal Haasan was honoured with a standing ovation as he received the prestigious award for Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema. The distinguished artiste looked dapper in his black suit as singer and music composer AR Rahman presented him with the award.

Hrithik Roshan, captured the hearts of fans with his heartfelt acceptance speech. Expressing his gratitude, Hrithik reminisced, "I have lived with Vedha for many years now. It began right here in Abu Dhabi. I gave my first shot as Vedha here... it feels like life has come full circle to me." The talented actor further revealed, "Vedha helped me unleash the madness inside me, which I did not know existed. Thank you, universe, and thank you Vedha for helping me discover that madness and giving me the strength to embrace it." Hrithik concluded his speech with a heartfelt message to his fans, "I love you guys... I will never take you for granted."

Alia and Ranbir starrer "Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva", emerged as one of the evening's big winners, securing multiple awards at IIFA 2023. The film took home accolades for Best Playback Singer, with Shreya Ghoshal winning in the female category and Arijit Singh in the male category. Additionally, Mouni Roy was honored as the Best Supporting Actor (female) for her performance in the movie.

The Best Debut (male) award was shared between Babil Khan for his portrayal in "Qala" and Santanu Maheshwari for his performance in "Gangubai Kathiawadi." Khushali Kumar bagged the title of Best Debut (female) for her impressive role in "Dhoka Around the Corner."

During the IIFA Rocks event held on Friday night, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's period biopic "Gangubai Kathiawadi" triumphed in the technical categories, securing awards for cinematography, screenplay, and dialogue.

The IIFA 2023 Awards ceremony not only celebrated the remarkable achievements of these talented artistes but also showcased the diversity and excellence of Indian cinema on a global stage.