Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], March 9 (ANI): Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari talked about the 25th Silver Jubilee edition of the International Indian Film Academy Awards 2025 (IIFA) in Jaipur.

While speaking to the media, she discussed the importance of such events in increasing tourism in the state and said, '...People are very excited. Our effort will be to organize more such events in Rajasthan. By organizing these events, tourism will increase in Rajasthan, the economy will grow, and people will also get employment.'

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma also said that the film industry and the state have an 'old relationship' that has become stronger with the celebration of the 25th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA).

While speaking to the media, he shared, '... Rajasthan and the film industry have an old relationship. The culture of Rajasthan and its natural beauty are very different from the world... This old relationship became stronger when the 25 years of IIFA were celebrated in Rajasthan... I invite all the filmmakers of the world, people associated with films and nature lovers to Rajasthan...'

Earlier, a special screening of the iconic film 'Sholay' was held at the prestigious Rajmandir Cinema. Several Bollywood legends and cast members attended the event, and they shared their experiences and memories of working on the classic movie.

Filmmaker Sooraj Barjatiya, who attended the special screening, expressed his gratitude towards the Government and IIFA for their support.

'It is a matter of pride for us that the way we have got support from the Govt and IIFA. We have been associated with Raj Mandir since 1977. Four of our films were running in this theatre for over 100 days. Hum Aapke Hain Kaun kept running here for 75 weeks,' Barjatiya said while speaking to ANI.

Deputy CM Diya Kumari also attended the screening, said, 'It is a matter of great pleasure and a proud thing. Today, Raj Mandir Cinema is completing 50 years...my greetings...this moment is iconic for all of us...whoever visits Jaipur, they come to Raj Mandir Cinema as well, it is like a tourist spot...'

The IIFA Digital Awards, which took place on March 8, saw major wins for Kriti Sanon, Jitendra Kumar, Panchayat 3, and Amar Singh Chamkila.

The main IIFA Awards night, hosted by Kartik Aaryan and Karan Johar, kicked off on March 9. MMA legend and combat sports star Anthony Pettis is set to make a special appearance. The awards show will also feature a performance by Kareena Kapoor Khan, where she will pay tribute to her grandfather, legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor. (ANI)