Screen Awards 2025 Transforms into a Digital Spectacle on YouTube

The Screen Awards 2025 is set to debut on YouTube, marking a significant shift in how one of India’s most celebrated cinema awards will be presented. The Indian Express Group has announced this digital transformation, making the awards accessible to a global audience while maintaining its cultural significance and editorial integrity.

Embracing a New Era of Entertainment

This year’s awards are not just about recognizing excellence in cinema; they also aim to celebrate the evolution of storytelling in the digital age. The winners will be chosen by the Screen Academy, an independent body comprised of esteemed filmmakers and artists, committed to honoring true artistic merit.

Anant Goenka, Executive Director of the Indian Express Group, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the creativity inherent in Indian cinema. He stated, “Indian cinema deserves a stage that celebrates creativity beyond collections. Our storytellers carry 1.4 billion dreams — rooted in tradition and racing toward an exciting future. This award will honor that spirit and spotlight India’s boldest, most original voices.”

This year, Bollywood’s biggest stars will share the spotlight with some of the most influential content creators on YouTube. The event will unfold over a three-month festival, incorporating red carpet experiences, behind-the-scenes content, and creator-led storytelling, allowing for extensive fan engagement.

Capitalizing on Digital Trends

The shift to a digital-first format reflects broader trends in media consumption. With increasing internet accessibility, the rise of Connected TVs (CTV), and more widespread mobile usage, audiences are shifting their viewing habits. YouTube has noted that CTV has emerged as its fastest-growing screen in India over the last five years, underlining the platform’s ability to deliver quality content across various formats.

Gunjan Soni, Managing Director – India at YouTube, expressed excitement regarding the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to be the digital home for the Screen Awards, bringing a cultural icon to its next chapter. YouTube is where billions of fans connect with the entertainment they love, and we’re excited for them to experience one of cinema’s biggest nights in an immersive way.”

The partnership aims to create an engaged community, bridging the gap between traditional Bollywood stars and new-age digital creators.

According to ComScore, YouTube reaches approximately four out of five internet users in India aged 18 and older, and in 2024, entertainment videos on the platform amassed over 7.5 billion daily views worldwide. This extensive reach makes YouTube an ideal platform for the Screen Awards.

Priyanka Sinha Jha, Curator of the Screen Awards, reflected on the event’s historical significance. Established in 1995, the Screen Awards has been a pioneer in recognizing cinematic achievements in India. Jha noted that the awards have consistently been associated with credibility and prestige, stating, “With the inception of The Screen Academy and our partnership with YouTube, we mark another first for India — building on our reputation for presenting the nation’s most credible and coveted awards.”

The Screen Awards 2025 is not just an awards ceremony; it represents an opportunity for brands to connect with India’s most engaged audiences through innovative storytelling and cultural relevance, both online and offline. As the event approaches, it promises to redefine how cinema is celebrated in the digital age.