Actor Pankaj Tripathi is set to make his hosting debut at the IIFA Digital Awards 2027, taking on a role he describes as a “completely different” experience from his journey as an actor.
Expressing his excitement about the opportunity, Tripathi said that hosting the awards show comes with “a little extra nervousness and a lot of excitement”.
“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,” he said.
Tripathi added that this will be his first experience hosting an awards show, making the occasion particularly special for him.
The Mirzapur actor said the digital world has transformed how stories are created, discovered and appreciated, and described IIFA’s recognition of the new generation of storytelling as meaningful.
“To be part of that celebration alongside so many talented artists and creators is an honour,” Tripathi said, adding that he hopes to bring the “spirit, warmth and, hopefully, a little bit of humour” to the IIFA Digital Awards stage.
The upcoming IIFA celebrations will feature separate pairs of hosts for the digital and main award ceremonies. Tripathi and actor Ali Fazal will host the IIFA Digital Awards 2027, while filmmaker Karan Johar and actor Varun Dhawan will host the main IIFA Awards 2027.
The star-studded event will also feature performances by Salman Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Janhvi Kapoor, with Salman set to headline the entertainment line-up.
The 27th edition of IIFA Weekend & Awards will be held at Etihad Arena on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi on January 22 and 23, 2027.