Actress Ananya Panday is set to make her hosting debut at the IIFA Awards 2027, returning to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi — the city where her IIFA journey first began — this time in a brand-new role as co-host at the 27th Edition of the IIFA Weekend and Awards. The event is scheduled for 22–23 January 2027 at the Etihad Arena.

Ananya Panday on the Full-Circle Moment

For Panday, the occasion carries a deeply personal significance. “Being a part of IIFA has always been incredibly special to me. My IIFA journey began in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, with my very first-ever performance on that iconic stage. I still remember the excitement of that moment,” she said. The actress recalled growing up watching the awards before finding herself part of the celebration — an experience she described as feeling “like a dream come true.”

Reflecting on what returning as co-host means to her, Panday added: “To now be returning to IIFA 2027 in a completely new role as a co-host to IIFA Awards makes this experience even more special. To have the opportunity to be on that stage and celebrate some of the biggest stars, stories and achievements of Indian cinema is something I'm genuinely excited about.”

Varun Dhawan Returns to Co-Host

Actor Varun Dhawan will also join the hosting lineup, marking his own return to the IIFA stage. He described the awards as “a celebration that feels very close to the heart of every actor because it brings our entire film fraternity together in one place.” Dhawan noted that the energy at IIFA is “difficult to describe until you experience it — the audience, the artists, the music and that feeling of Indian cinema coming together on one global stage.” He called returning to Yas Island as host “a huge honour,” adding that Abu Dhabi has become “such a special part of IIFA's journey.”

Karan Johar: Six Times and Counting

Veteran IIFA host Karan Johar is also set to bring his signature energy back to the stage, hosting the ceremony for the sixth time. “IIFA and I go back a long way, and some of my most memorable moments on stage have happened here. Six times as host sounds like a lot, but the excitement, the nerves and the sheer unpredictability of a live IIFA night never get old,” Johar said. He described the event as having “a wonderful madness and magic” and expressed particular excitement about returning to Abu Dhabi.

About IIFA 2027

The 27th IIFA Weekend and Awards will be held at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, on 22–23 January 2027. The event is one of the most high-profile annual showcases of Indian cinema on the global stage, drawing A-list talent and international audiences. This edition marks a return to Abu Dhabi, a city that has hosted the ceremony multiple times and built strong associations with the franchise. With Panday stepping into the hosting role for the first time alongside Dhawan and Johar, the edition is shaping up to offer a blend of familiar star power and fresh energy.