IIFA voting weekend kicks off

The 13th International Indian Film Academy celebrations kickstarted with Bollywood stars like Dia Mirza, Parineeti Chopra, Arbaaz Khan and Arjan Bajwa attending the IIFA voting weekend 2012.

Several members of the Indian film fraternity came forward to cast their vote for IIFA Awards 2012, to be held later this year.

Filmmakers Ramesh Sippy, David Dhawan, Sujoy Ghosh, Zoya Akhtar, actresses Genelia D'souza, Urmila Matondkar, composer duo Salim-Suleiman, singer Shaan, actors Vivek Oberoi and Sonu Sood were also present.

"I have already collected ten awards till now, looking forward to get an IIFA award as well. Everyday I keep counting awards. The best part about IIFA is that it is not rigged and there is no favouritism," said Parineeti, who has won the best debut trophy at all award functions for her performance in Ladies vs Ricky Bahl.

Though there is no official announcement as to where IIFA awards will take place this year, actor Arjan Bajwa, after casting his vote, said, "This year we have it in Singapore."

Veteran filmmaker Ramesh Sippy said, "In the last 13 years IIFA's popularity has increased, it helps trade between two countries - India and where the award ceremonies are held. Tourism also goes up," Sippy said.

When asked who is his favourite star this year, Sippy said, "All I know is Vidya will win award."

Dia, who came with her beau Sahil Sangha, said, "Every year IIFA just keeps getting better. I am looking forward to the award ceremonies."