The IIFA Utsavam rewards the artistic and technical achievements of the South Indian film industry.
The Award nominees are selected by a jury of senior artistes and professionals and voted for by public polling.
[4][5] On 3 December 2015, Andre Timmins of the IIFA Management announced that the show would be postponed as a result of the 2015 Chennai floods and that the event would be held as a fundraiser at a later date.
[6] The show was subsequently rearranged and held from 24 to 25 January, with the proceeds of the events going on to help with recuperation efforts from the 2015 Chennai floods.
[7][8] As a part of the inaugural event, the makers organised the FICC–IIIFA Media & Entertainment business conclave in order to create a synthesis of business and entertainment, with Ramesh Sippy, and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra being amongst the guest speakers.