NEW DELHI: IIFA is returning to the US for the second time with the 2017 edition set to be held in New York from July 14 to 15.
The festival, currently in its 18th year, will take place at NYC’s iconic MetLife Stadium. The US city of Tampa Bay in Florida hosted the 2014 International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards.
“We were waiting for a long time to do IIFA in New York. I feel that New York is like Mumbai as it is also a city that never sleeps. The idea is to give a rebirth to IIFA,” Andre Timmins told reporters.
“For 18 years, our focus has been on promoting Indian cinema around the world. But at the same time we want to recognise Hollywood films that are doing well in India. We are also trying to recognise all web series airing in India,” says Timmins, Director – Wizcraft International, the producers and creator of the IIFA movement.
He says that the event has the support of the American consulate, the Governor, the Mayor of New York and the Indian diaspora in the US.
“We wish to see US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the same stage at IIFA,” Timmins adds.
The 2014 edition saw stars like John Travolta and Kevin Spacey take part in the celebration and Timmins says this time as well they will include several big names from Hollywood.
“Indian stars are collaborating with Hollywood. We want to invite Hollywood stars to be a big part of our event and want to give them a big opening market in India. That’s our focus.”
In a statement, New York City Mayor, Bill de Blasio says, “We are thrilled to welcome IIFA to New York! Our city is home to both a thriving film industry and a dynamic, growing Indian American community. This is an event that will contribute enormously to both the cultural and economic life of our city.” (AGENCIES)
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