Dubai, UAE – Celebrations echoed through the halls of the South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) 2024 as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was honored with the Best Actress in a Leading Role (Critics) for her compelling performance in Mani Ratnam’s “Ponniyin Selvan 2”. The accolade came as recognition of her portrayal of the character Nandini, a role that has resonated with audiences and critics alike.
During the event, Aishwarya was accompanied by her daughter Aaradhya, who appeared delighted to witness her mother’s triumph. The award presentation, held in Dubai, turned into a memorable affair as young Aaradhya was seen capturing the moment her mother received the prestigious trophy on stage.
The ceremony not only highlighted Aishwarya’s achievements but also saw the presence of other notable figures from the South Indian film industry, including Chiyaan Vikram who was awarded Best Actor (Tamil) at the same event. This year’s SIIMA not only celebrated individual achievements but also the collaborative spirit of cinema that the movie “Ponniyin Selvan 2” exemplified.
In her acceptance speech, Aishwarya expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the organizers and shared her emotional connection with the film. She credited director Mani Ratnam, calling him her guru, and emphasized how the film was a significant and close-to-heart project. She mentioned that receiving the award was an acknowledgment of the entire team’s hard work.
Aishwarya, known for her connection with her fans, was also seen interacting and taking selfies with attendees on the red carpet, adding to the celebratory mood of the evening.
The movie “Ponniyin Selvan 2” holds a special place in the contemporary cinematic landscape, being the sequel to the 2022 film. Directed by the acclaimed Mani Ratnam, the film also features the voice of veteran actor Kamal Haasan and a score by Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman, which have both added depth and gravitas to the movie’s narrative.
This year’s SIIMA was not just an award ceremony, but a showcase of the rich narratives and dynamic performances that define South Indian cinema. As stars like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan continue to make significant contributions to the industry, events like SIIMA remain crucial in celebrating and promoting the art of filmmaking in the region.