Shahid Kapoor on why he takes part in IIFA every year

Shahid Kapoor, who has been nominated in the best actor category for the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards for 'Udta Punjab', said that every year he makes a point to take part in the film fiesta as it gives him a platform to meet his fans and friends.

While talking to the media at IIFA Weekend Press Conference here, the 36-year-old said, "It's been a long association with the IIFA. I can never say no to them. They have been extremely kind to me. I have hosted as well as performed at the IIFA for many years."

"I love the IIFA. I love the event; I love the fact that you get to travel to different countries and meet people you don't even know. I really make sure that I take part in the IIFA every year, because it allows me to meet all of you guys, who I might not have opportunity to meet," he added.

Salman Khan, Anupam Kher, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Katrina Kaif, Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon and Sushant Singh Rajput apart from DJ Dwayne Bravo set the pace for the IIFA celebrations here.

'Udta Punjab' has been nominated in seven categories for this year's IIFA Awards.

The three-day IIFA gala features the IIFA Stomp, IIFA Rocks and IIFA Awards.

The stars promised a "memorable" show full of fun and frolic.

The IIFA, which celebrates the achievements of Bollywood in different cities across the world, is being held at the iconic MetLife Stadium in New York from July 13-15.