Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], March 13 : Rajasthan's Leader of Opposition, Tikaram Jully, on Thursday slammed the state government for spending over Rs100 crore on the IIFA 2025 celebrations, questioning the benefits to the state.
Jully argued that the event, held on March 8 and 9 in Jaipur, was more of a promotional platform for IIFA than for Rajasthan tourism.
In a media interaction, MLA Tikaram said, "In the name of IIFA, the hard-earned money of Rajasthan citizens, more than Rs 100 crore have been spent which was not necessary. The event didn't feel like we were promoting Rajasthan. All hoardings and banners were of IIFA. What benefit did Rajasthan recieve?"
Despite Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari calling the event a matter of pride for the state, Jully felt that the awards gala did not showcase Rajasthan's tourist spots or promote local culture. He criticized the government for allocating massive funds to the event without providing clear benefits to the state.
He continued, "Did any actors visit Rajasthan tourist spot? It was a well-thought strategy." Meanwhile, Kumari called the event a matter of pride for the state and an advantage for Rajasthan tourism.
Jully demanded that the government provide detailed information on the expenditure, including the amount spent on actors, organizations, and promotions. He questioned whether the event was solely for entertainment purposes or if it brought any tangible benefits to Rajasthan.
"I want to ask the government to present the detailed expenditure of the state to the citizens, which was done during IIFA. At the very least, we should also know how much money was given to the actors, organisations and promotions. Does it benefit Rajasthan, or was it only for the program of dance and music?"
IIFA 2025, Bollywood's biggest awards night, was held on March 8 and 9 in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Superstars including Shah Rukh Khan, Kartik Aaryan, Shahid Kapoor, and Kareena Kapoor Khan attended.
The 25th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, held in Jaipur, Rajasthan, was a spectacular celebration of Indian cinema.
Leading the pack of winners was 'Laapataa Ladies,' which captivated audiences and critics alike with its heartfelt storytelling and standout performances.
The film, directed by Kiran Rao, was awarded the coveted Best Picture trophy, marking a remarkable achievement for the team behind it.
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