As the 25th International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) kicked off in Jaipur, Bollywood legend Madhuri Dixit took a moment to praise Hrithik Roshan, calling him the “God of dance.” When asked about the best dancer in Bollywood, Madhuri expressed, “There are so many, especially in male dancers. My God, there are so many. There is Shahid, Tiger, Varun, and Hrithik Roshan. I mean, he is God.”
Reflecting on her long-standing relationship with IIFA, Madhuri shared her fond memories of the event, describing it as a “family” affair. She emphasized how the awards ceremony has become a grand celebration of Indian cinema over the years, and how she enjoys being part of the event. “IIFA is like a family. We have been associated for so many years. And whenever we come here, we have a lot of fun. We just celebrate each other’s success,” she said.
Madhuri also spoke about IIFA’s growth and its global impact, noting the significance of hosting the 25th edition in Rajasthan. “IIFA has grown from strength to strength. We have always presented Indian cinema in a grand way internationally. For the 25th anniversary, we came to Rajasthan, which is a very wonderful thing. Rajasthan and Jaipur, especially, are so beautiful. There is beauty, dance, music, colours, and palaces. It’s ideal to be here,” she remarked.
On the subject of awards and accolades, Madhuri emphasized the importance of audience love over recognition. “It’s a sign that you have done a good job, and you have been rewarded. But the biggest reward is the love of the audience, and it will always be with me,” she said.
Despite being one of Bollywood’s finest dancers, Madhuri admitted she still feels nervous before taking the stage. “Yes, of course. Before I go on stage, I am always nervous because I want to do my best. But once I am on stage, I see the reaction of the audience, and I forget everything,” she revealed.
The IIFA 2025 celebration in Jaipur will culminate on March 9 with the grand IIFA Awards Night. This year, the event will also feature a special 50th-anniversary tribute to the iconic film Sholay with an exclusive screening at the Raj Mandir Cinema. Legendary MMA fighter Anthony Pettis will make a special appearance, while Kartik Aaryan will host the evening. Kareena Kapoor Khan will perform and pay tribute to her grandfather, legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor, during the awards show.