/> Amitabh Bachchan On The IIFA Awards 2006

Q: How are the IIFA awards this year different from the previous years?
A: I think every year there's some progress made at the IIFA awards in one way or another. We started by merely acknowledging and honouring artistes for their work. Now we'moved on to creating a forum where business opportunities are created and discussed.

There're forums for discussions on cinema for people from all over the world. There're charity events and sports events....Then of course the awards ceremony itself which is unique because the film industry votes for itself. The awards are all computerized.

Q: Which is the one most enjoyable aspect if IIFA for you?
A: I think it's a wonderful opportunity for the entire film industry to get together in one city in any part of the world over a period of four days. We're all neighbours in the film industry. But we don't get the time to meet one another. I think it's wonderful to be in an environment where one can relax and be with one's colleagues without stress or anxiety.

Q: Do you think the IIFA awards have grown over the past 4-5 years?
A: Oh, most certainly. I think over the past seven years the IIFA has benefited the film industry both commercially and socially. From providing a lucrative venue to creating an awareness about Indian cinema...it has achieved a lot.

Q: What unique aspects this year at IIFA?
A: Instead of the sports event there's going to be a charity fashion show. And of course we've tried to make improvements in every aspect, from the facilities provided to the guests to the quality of the live shows.

Q: Don't you think there're too many awards ceremonies every year?
A: Why not? This is a free society. Everyone has the right to do what he or she likes. It's any individual or organization's prerogative to host an awards ceremony. How wonderful to find our fraternity being acknowledged for our efforts. Creative artistes need the appreciation.

Q: This year you've swept all the popular awards.
A: Yes.... Yes.... It's been unique. But that's primarily due to the fact that the film Black was so well-made...all credit to Sanjay Bhansali and to the audience for embracing this piece of art. It's unique for a film to score with both critics and the audience. The success of Black shows the maturity of our audiences.

A film like this demolishes the wall between art and commercial film. Really, Black has bridged many gaps. And that's so wonderful.