MUMBAI: After being held in places like Great Britain, China, Europe, Middle East, Thailand and Sri Lanka in the past, the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) will make its North American debut in Ontario, Canada this year. 

The IIFA Awards is all set to take place from 23 – 25 June, 2011. The announcement was made by actors Anil Kapoor and Preity Zinta along with Honorable Premier of Ontario Dalton McGuinty.

McGuinty said, “Ontario’s diversity makes us stronger and the IIFA Weekend and Awards are proof of that. The weekend will build on the growing economic and cultural ties between our province and India and showcase Ontario to the world.”

Anil Kapoor said, “IIFA’s journey over the last ten years has opened many doors for the Indian film Industry in the host country, be it in terms of film shooting avenues or the assistance given to filmmakers and producers from Government and Tourism bodies. IIFA has also helped propel Indian Cinema, by virtue of the deals that have been struck with production houses and the screening of our films that would have never had the opportunity to be showcased there, prior to the IIFA event.”

Preity Zinta added, “I think IIFA is a very novel venture and has allowed our Indian Film Fraternity to expand its wings over the globe with IIFA’s remarkable idea of taking the fraternity to different cities and countries each year. Through the 11 successful years that IIFA has completed, we have experienced unbelievable love from global fans. IIFA gives us the opportunity to see firsthand the support we are receiving beyond borders. I am very excited to see the IIFA action shift to Toronto this year, which shares a close association with India.”

Wizcraft director Sabbas Joseph said, “Toronto is a great choice for IIFA’s North American premiere. We have already gained a great response from people across Canada, America and key territories across the world with guests eager to join the celebrations in Toronto. We are certain that this year’s IIFA will be absolutely memorable.”