Master storyteller Priyadarshan to be celebrated at IIFA Utsavam 2024

ABU DHABI: Celebrated as an elite of the era, National Award-winning Indian film director, producer and screenwriter, master storyteller Priyadarshan is set to be honoured with the IIFA Utsavam Special Honour for Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema.

This prestigious recognition will be bestowed upon him at the highly anticipated multifaceted South Indian cinematic extravaganza, which will take place at the iconic Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi this September.

IIFA Utsavam Awards Special Honour for Outstanding Achievement in India Cinema is all set to pay tribute to Sri Priyadarshan’s illustrious career, that is marked by numerous acclaimed films and his significant contributions to Indian cinema — a true testament to his enduring legacy and profound influence in the film industry.

Priyadarshan expressed his heartfelt gratitude, saying, “Thank you, IIFA Utsavam, for this honour. I am delighted to be part of IIFA Utsavam’s multifaceted celebration, which promises to be a spectacular showcase of the immense talent and rich diversity of South Indian cinema, held under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. South Indian cinema, renowned for its rich storytelling and technical brilliance, is continuously breaking new ground in Pan-Indian filmmaking and heralding an era of ground-breaking crossover collaborations across languages.”

Celebrating the master storyteller, IIFA Utsavam 2024 will spotlight his remarkable versatility and innovation around his diverse array of cinematic gems, ranging from riveting dramas to heart-warming comedies, showcasing his unique ability to seamlessly blend art and entertainment.

“We are proud to pay tribute to our master storyteller, Sri Priyadarshan, at IIFA Utsavam 2024. As a National Award-winning Indian film director, producer, and screenwriter, his remarkable contributions to Indian cinema have left an indelible mark. With the IIFA Utsavam Awards Special Honour for Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema, we are thrilled to celebrate one of our most prolific filmmakers. His illustrious body of work and the lasting impact of his contributions to Indian cinema are truly commendable,” commented, Andre Timmins, Founder/Director, IIFA Utsavam.

As the grand celebration of South Indian Cinema takes centre stage o September 6 and 7 this year under the honourable patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance & Coexistence, the highly-anticipated IIFA Utsavam 2024 is being held in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi.

IIFA Utsavam is all set to celebrate the triumphs of South Indian cinema by uniting the Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada film industries, showcasing their rich tapestry of talent, creativity, and storytelling to a global audience. The highly anticipated two-day celebration promises to immerse audiences in a rich tapestry of cinematic experiences. Day One will spotlight the vibrant worlds of Tamil and Malayalam cinema, highlighting their unique storytelling and cultural richness, while Day Two shifts focus to Telugu and Kannada cinema, offering a diverse array of films and performances from these dynamic industries.