The IIFA Awards 2027 is set to bring together four popular Bollywood personalities as Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan, Maniesh Paul and Ananya Panday prepare to co-host the prestigious event. For the first time in IIFA’s history, the four stars will share hosting duties, combining humour, glamour, spontaneity and youthful energy for a celebration of Indian cinema on the global stage.
With Karan Johar’s flamboyant style, Varun Dhawan’s energetic presence, Maniesh Paul’s comic timing and Ananya Panday’s vibrant personality, the hosting line-up promises an entertaining evening for audiences across generations. The upcoming edition will continue IIFA’s tradition of bringing together leading stars and diverse talents from the Indian film industry.
Karan Johar and Varun Dhawan Return to the IIFA Stage
Karan Johar expressed his excitement about returning as the host, describing IIFA as an important part of his professional journey. The filmmaker and television personality will be hosting the awards for the sixth time.
“IIFA and I go back a long way, and some of my most memorable moments on stage have happened here,” Johar said. He added that despite hosting the event multiple times, the excitement and unpredictability of a live IIFA night remain unchanged.
Johar also spoke about his enthusiasm for returning to Abu Dhabi, saying he looks forward to the laughter, surprises and memorable moments that the 2027 edition is expected to bring.
Varun Dhawan also shared his excitement about taking on hosting duties. Reflecting on his association with IIFA, the actor said the awards hold a special place in the film industry because they bring together the fraternity and showcase Indian cinema to audiences worldwide.
Dhawan recalled his previous experiences with IIFA, including stage performances and celebrations in Abu Dhabi. He described the atmosphere as a unique combination of music, artists, audiences and the collective celebration of Indian cinema.
Calling his return to Yas Island as a host a great honour, Dhawan said Abu Dhabi has become an important part of IIFA’s journey. He added that he looks forward to sharing the stage with his fellow hosts, celebrating the industry’s talent and creating new memories.
Ananya Panday to Make Her IIFA Hosting Debut
For Ananya Panday, the 2027 edition will mark a new chapter in her association with IIFA as she takes on the role of co-host for the first time.
The actress recalled that her IIFA journey began on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, where she delivered her first-ever performance on the awards stage. Having grown up watching the event, she described being part of the celebration as a dream come true.
Panday said her experiences with IIFA over the years have helped her grow and discover new aspects of herself. She also highlighted the excitement surrounding the event, from its large-scale production to the coming together of talent from across the film industry.
Returning to Abu Dhabi in a new role holds particular significance for the actress, as the city is where her association with IIFA began. She expressed her enthusiasm for celebrating Indian cinema, honouring its stars and achievements, and creating fresh memories with audiences around the world.
Maniesh Paul Promises Entertainment and Laughter
Maniesh Paul, who has hosted IIFA on several occasions, will return to the stage for the 27th edition of the awards. The television presenter and entertainer said the excitement of hosting the event remains just as strong every time he returns.
Reflecting on his experience, Paul spoke about the unique atmosphere created by the live audience, Bollywood stars, laughter and spontaneous moments that make IIFA different from other events.
He also expressed his happiness about returning to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, describing his association with IIFA as a memorable part of his career. Paul said he feels grateful to have been part of the awards’ journey and is looking forward to sharing the stage with his co-hosts.
With Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan, Maniesh Paul and Ananya Panday leading the evening, IIFA Awards 2027 will bring together four distinct hosting styles for its 27th edition. The event is expected to celebrate the achievements of Indian cinema while offering audiences an evening of entertainment, music, humour and memorable performances.