IIFA 2024: Shah Rukh Khan, ‘Tauba Tauba’ and the confluence of the young and the old

The IIFA Awards 2024 in Abu Dhabi was headlined by the craze around Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan even as it celebrated the greats of the southern industries

A fan on the green carpet of the IIFA Awards 2024 in Abu Dhabi confessed she was here only for SRK. “They will do anything for him in Dubai. They love him so much,” said a local scribe. To call the three-day (September 27-September 29) extravaganza a one-man show would not be an exaggeration, as Shah Rukh Khan was the hot topic from the word go.

Hoping he would make an appearance, the paparazzi stood in anticipation for a mind-boggling 12 hours. Well past midnight, the wait was worth it for star-stuck fans and the media as the Bollywood superstar —  after enthralling the crowd with his wit and charm inside the Etihad Arena —  walked the carpet, shining in his black suit and stylish watch. He greeted a young boy with a smile, wrapping up his IIFA experience that began with frenzied fans mobbing him at the airport in Mumbai.

“It’s good to be back,” said the star as he bagged the Best Actor award for his performance in Atlee’s Jawan (2023). Shah Rukh had overcome a lean patch with blockbusters such as Pathaan and Jawan to enjoy a dream 2023. However, the craze for him at the event was yet another indication that the actor was beyond box office validations.

Even as he performed with impeccable energy and left the audience in splits with his humour, Shah Rukh took a moment to reflect on his difficult phase. “We were going through a tough time while making Jawan,” said the star, indirectly referring to his son Aryan Khan’s high-profile drug case.

Apart from King Khan, the hit track ‘Tauba Tauba’from Bad Newz alsogot fans on their feet. Be it at a press conference, on the green carpet, or during the show, Vicky Kaushal did not hesitate to ask the guests or co-actors to join him to groove for Karan Aujla’s peppy number.

Interestingly, the awards were not just about glitz and glamour. “Who are you wearing today?” was the obvious question asked of those showcasing a unique fashion sense. However, the conversation also revolved around filmmaking and its challenges in today’s time.

“I am 72 years old, and I want to tell you all ‘don’t give up‘,“ said Vidhu Vinod Chopra, talking about the phenomenal success of his movie 12th Fail, starring Vikrant Massey. “You must have immense faith in your material,” said the director, revealing how several filmmakers did not give his film a chance.