Actor Pankaj Tripathi is set to make his hosting debut at the IIFA Digital Awards 2027, marking a significant first for one of Bollywood's most celebrated character actors. The announcement confirms that Tripathi will share hosting duties with actor Ali Fazal at the digital ceremony, while Karan Johar and Varun Dhawan will co-host the main IIFA Awards 2027.

Tripathi on Stepping Into a New Role

Describing the experience as unlike anything in his acting career, Tripathi said, “For an actor, there are certain moments that come with a little extra nervousness and a lot of excitement and hosting the IIFA Digital Awards for the first time is definitely one of them.”

He added, “I have spent much of my journey standing in front of the camera and telling stories through characters, so stepping onto the IIFA stage in a completely different role is both exciting and humbling. In fact, this will be my first experience of hosting an awards show, which makes the moment even more special for me.”

The Mirzapur actor also spoke about the significance of recognising digital storytelling: “The digital world has transformed the way stories are created, discovered and loved, and IIFA recognising this new generation of storytelling feels very meaningful. To be part of that celebration alongside so many talented artists and creators is an honour.”

What the IIFA Digital Awards Represent

The IIFA Digital Awards is a dedicated segment of the larger International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) celebrations, spotlighting the rapidly growing world of digital content — from streaming series and short films to web-based creators. Its inclusion as a standalone ceremony reflects the industry’s recognition that OTT and digital platforms have become a primary space for Indian storytelling, a shift that has accelerated significantly over the past five years.

Notably, Tripathi himself is closely identified with this transition — his breakthrough roles in Mirzapur, Sacred Games, and Criminal Justice were all digital-first productions, making his selection as host a symbolically resonant choice.

Star-Studded Performances Lined Up

Beyond the hosting announcements, the 27th edition of IIFA Weekend and Awards promises a high-voltage entertainment line-up. Salman Khan is set to headline the performances, joined by Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Janhvi Kapoor. Khan’s presence is expected to be the centrepiece of the evening’s spectacle.

Venue, Date and Format

The 27th IIFA Weekend and Awards will be held at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, on 22 and 23 January 2027. The two-day format will split the digital and main award ceremonies across separate hosting pairs, giving each event its own distinct identity. IIFA has historically used international venues to carry Indian cinema to a global audience, and Abu Dhabi continues that tradition.

With Tripathi bringing his trademark warmth and wit to the IIFA stage for the first time, and a performer roster that spans generations of Bollywood, the 2027 edition shapes up as one of the most anticipated in recent years.