The 25th edition of the Indian Television Academy (ITA) Awards kicked off with its prestigious jury meet, held at the JW Marriott, Juhu in early October 2025. Celebrating 25 years of recognizing excellence in Indian television and OTT content, the event saw celebrated actor Anil Kapoor take on the role of jury chairman, alongside ITA founders Anu Ranjan and Shashi Ranjan. The gathering also included a host of industry personalities, followed by a formal press conference.
Speaking at the event, Anil Kapoor expressed deep admiration for the legacy of the ITA Awards and his long-standing friendship with Shashi Ranjan. “All I can say is I have been watching ITA for the longest, and me and Shashi Ranjan go way back — I think almost 40-45 years. We have been friends, colleagues, actors, and I have seen him grow this award so sincerely and honestly, and with a lot of integrity,” he said.
He added, “You can actually feel it — that it’s done in a truthful and honest way. So when he asked me to be the chairman, I was really happy. And otherwise, with me, unless I trust the people, I don’t work with them — chairman or not.”
Kapoor also reflected on the importance of a credible and unbiased jury in maintaining the awards' integrity. “Obviously, the jury is the most important — they do the real job. When I came to know who the jury members were, I was certain they were the right ones. Who wins or doesn’t — that’s another thing — because not every participant is worthy of winning. I congratulate all the nominees. On the 17th of December, we will announce the winners.”
As the ITA Awards mark a major milestone with their 25th year, Kapoor closed by saying, “Huge congratulations to Anu and Shashi. It’s a huge honor and privilege to be the chairman.”
The upcoming awards ceremony promises to be a grand celebration of Indian television’s evolution, honoring the creators, performers, and pioneers who have shaped the industry over the last quarter century.