Why IIFA Swapped The Red Carpet For Green: The Story Behind It

For 16 years, the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards has welcomed its celebrity guests not on a red carpet, but a bright green one. This significant change was first introduced in 2007 at the IIFA event in Sheffield, UK, and has since become a symbol of the event’s commitment to raising environmental awareness.

The Birth of the Green Carpet Concept

In 2007, IIFA launched the “Greening the IIFAs” initiative, opting for a green carpet to spread a global message about the importance of addressing climate change. The idea was to use the platform’s global reach and star power to encourage fans and viewers to think about environmental issues.

“IIFA has always been focused on the environmental agenda,” the event organizers shared. The green carpet allows celebrities to promote awareness in a way that stands out globally. With millions of fans watching, the impact of this messaging is significant.

IIFA’s Global Journey

Since its inception in 2000, the IIFA Awards have traveled across the globe, taking Bollywood to international stages. Cities like London, Dubai, New York, Bangkok, and now Abu Dhabi have hosted the annual event, each year featuring the iconic green carpet.

The event not only honors the best in Bollywood but also brings attention to global causes, with the green carpet standing out as a symbol of environmental responsibility.

A Star-Studded Event

The IIFA Awards are much more than just a green carpet. The 2023 edition in Abu Dhabi is set to be hosted by Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan, Karan Johar, and Vicky Kaushal, with performers like Rekha, Kriti Sanon, and Janhvi Kapoor gracing the stage. The event also includes IIFA Rocks and IIFA Utsavam, celebrating Bollywood and South Indian cinema, respectively.

The Legacy of the Red Carpet

While the red carpet traditionally represents glamour and status, dating back to its use in the early 1900s by the New York Central Railroad, the IIFA’s switch to green marks a modern twist. By using this platform to promote sustainability, IIFA has given the traditional idea of star-studded events a fresh, environmentally conscious perspective.

Conclusion

The IIFA green carpet isn’t just a visual shift but a statement about the global environmental movement. This bold change, paired with the glamour of Bollywood, makes for a powerful message—one that stars continue to promote worldwide.