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The Screen Awardsone of India’s longest-running film honours, will take on a new digital-first format this year, streaming exclusively on YouTube. The Indian Express Group, which has hosted the awards since 1995, announced the shift on Monday, calling it a step toward reaching wider and younger audiences.

Unlike traditional award shows, the 2025 edition will feature Bollywood stars alongside YouTube creators in a three-month-long festival of cinema, fan engagement, and digital storytelling. Red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes access, and creator-led content will be part of the format.

The winners will continue to be selected by the Screen Academy — an independent, not-for-profit body of filmmakers, artists, and cultural voices.

“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 honour that spirit and spotlight India’s boldest, most original voices,” said Anant Goenka, Executive Director of the Indian Express Group.

YouTube, which has seen strong growth in India through mobile and Connected TV consumption, is positioning the awards as a bridge between film stars and digital creators. “We are thrilled to be the digital home for the Screen Awards, bringing a cultural icon to its next chapter. By bridging Bollywood’s biggest stars with YouTube’s most influential creators, we’re building an engaged community for an iconic event,” said Gunjan Soni, Managing Director, YouTube India.

Since its launch, the Screen Awards has built a reputation for credibility — introducing India’s first jury-based film awards and hosting international recognition, including endorsement by the Oscars management.

“This year marks another first,” said Priyanka Sinha Jha, Curator of the awards. “With the inception of The Screen Academy and our partnership with YouTube, we build on a legacy of credibility while experimenting with new forms of storytelling.”

With YouTube reaching four out of five Indian internet users over 18, the organisers believe the platform will give the Screen Awards greater accessibility and global reach than ever before.

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