‘Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema’ at the Jaypee Group IIFA Awards May, 2012
Rekha, the epitome of beauty and sensuality after mesmerizing the Indian audience for over three decades was felicitated for her ‘Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema’ at the muchanticipated Jaypee Group IIFA Awards 2012 held in Lion City, Singapore. Known to have done several classic films that have been imprinted in the minds of her fans, the actress has come a long way, going on to become India’s favorite glamour icon after what was termed as the original ‘makeover’ queen. Each year, IIFA honours a member of the Indian Film Fraternity who has made innumerable contributions to Indian cinema. Keeping this in mind, the IIFA Advisory Board and the IIFA Management recognizes Rekha for her achievements in Indian Cinema, in its 13th year. Stalwarts of Indian cinema like V. K. Murthy and Yash Johar, among others have previously been recipients of this prestigious Award. Making the 13th year of the IIFA celebration even more special, this special award honored the diva that created a
storehouse of Indian film histories finest moments. Friend of IIFA, Rekha said, “I am extremely humbled to be appreciated and considered for the IIFA for my contributions to the film fraternity. It has been a long journey and hopefully my passion and love for cinema will continue to reach out to all my fans. I am especially happy to be honoured at a time when the industry celebrates a centenary of Indian films.” Daughter to South Indian film stars, Gemini Ganesan and Pushpavalli, Rekha’s 30-odd years in Bollywood proved promising from the very beginning. Her first release, Sawan Bhadon (1970), was a smash success and she became an instant star. It was instantly followed by a string of hits like Namak Haram, Dharma, Kahani Kismet Ki, and Pran Jaaye Par Vachan Na Jaaye. But it was ‘Do Anjaane’ where she played an ambitious wife who sacrificed love that left audiences enraptured. Gulzar’s ‘Ghar’ heralded the arrival of a mature Rekha and she went on to woo Indian audiences and ultimately became the box-office queen with movies like Muqqadar ka Sikandar, Khubsoorat, Judaai, Maang Bharo Sajna, Ek Hi Bhool, Basera. Yash Chopra’s ‘Silsila’ and Muzaffar Ali’s ‘Umrao Jaan’ sealed her ‘diva’ status, putting her into a league of her own. Andre Timmins, Director, Wizcraft International Entertainment comments, “Over the years, we have paid tribute to the biggest names in the Indian film industry, recognizing their contribution towards cinema. In our 13th year, IIFA is proud to honor India’s most loved actress Rekha for her immense work and contribution to the Indian film industry as we celebrate a centenary of Indian Cinema. She has undoubtedly captivated millions of hearts in our films and still continues to do so.” Rekha was given the award post a tribute performance to her famed songs by Priyanka Chopra. Rekha received the award from Shatrughan Sinha and his daughter, Sonakshi Sinha, where they relived their favourite moments with the actress, who received a standing ovation from the packed arena. The entire film industry congregated at the 13th Videocon IIFA Weekend in Singapore. The Videocon IIFA Weekend was hosted in the Lion City of Singapore from the 7th to the 9th of June. The Jaypee Group IIFA Awards, Singapore was an outstanding celebration of Indian Cinema that showcased the excellence of the Indian Film Industry on the global stage. In 2012, for the fourth year in succession, Videocon presented the IIFA Weekend and the Jaypee Group presented the IIFA Awards, while Grey Goose was the presenting sponsor of IIFA Rocks. Panasonic with its Eco Ideas initiative continued to partner the IIFAs for the greening initiative. The ceremony was supported by Incredible India!