Shahid-Vidya's 'Past' Connection And Rishi-Ranbir's 'Hungama'

"To my past and future...('pregnant' pause)...co stars," said Vidya Balan addressing Shahid Kapoor and Farhan Akhtar who hosted the IIFA Awards at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Vidya was on stage to give away an award. Shahid and Farhan a short while later went amongst the audience as part of an act and Vidya was the centre of Shahid's attention. He recited a Javed inspired Shayri and Balan replied in the form of a witty verse.

The highlight of the evening was the coming-together of Rishi and Ranbir Kapoor on stage. Ranbir started off the Rockstar act with Sadda Haq followed by Tai Tai Fish. Then Rishi ji joined him on Om Shanti Om and Bachna Ae Haseeno. It was wonderful to see Rishi dance in front of my own eyes. Priyanka Chopra gave an energetic tribute to Rekha ji. She started off with a techno version of In Ankhon Ki Masti Ke from Umrao Jaan. My dad Professor Shahryar has written all the songs of Umrao Jaan. He passed away in February this year and his birthday is coming on June 16. Listening to this song made me emotional. Priyanka also performed on Pardesiya, Pyar Do Pyar Lo and Rafta Rafta. She made Rekha ji join her as well.

Sonakshi performed on Chinta ta ta, Aa Re Preetam Pyaare and Munni Badnaam. Bipasha put in a fine show with Bipasha o Bipasha, Anarkal Disco Chali, Chikni Chameli And Ooh La La. Shahid paid a tribute to South stars. His dance steps carried a tinge of desi touch which is somewhat different from his past performances. He was joined by Priyanka at the end as they performed on a number from Teri Meri Kahani. They were also joined by Prabhudeva (who had earlier delivered a fine show on the title track of Rowdy Rathore).

Shabana Azmi touched Liv Ullman's feat as she presented her with the trophy for Outstanding Contribution in International Cinema. Ramesh Sippy ji gave such a long speech on receiving his trophy for lifetime achievement that the crowd repeatedly clapped giving a hint for him to take a bow. Prasoon Joshi announced that he is writing a song on the 100 years of Indian Cinema that is being composed by Shantanu Moitra.

I guess so much for now. It is 2:30 in the morning and our flight is scheduled at 7:30 am. We have to go to our hotel, pack up and rush to the Airport. Thank you Singapore. There have been several people here who've come out of the blue and praised my work. Javed from Kenya, Ayush, Nurul, Masood...thanks for making me feel special.

Sent from my iPad