IIFA celebrates India, Indian cinema: Priyanka Chopra

Actress Priyanka Chopra, who has been making space for herself in the international music scene, is here to be part of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) celebrations. She's glad that the event celebrates the country and its cinema abroad.

The four-day extravaganza began Wednesday and will culminate with the awards ceremony Saturday. Priyanka is sure it will be a one "magical blockbuster weekend".

"I am excited to be here. I have been to Miami several times, but it is the first time that I have come to Tampa Bay and I love it. I feel we Indians have invaded the city," Priyanka said here.

"This is going to be blockbuster weekend - it will be magical. It is important to tell people how our cinema transcends borders and reaches people. It is celebration of India, Indian cinema," said the National award-winning actress, who was in New York before she flew to Tampa Bay.

Several stars have flown in here to join in the celebrations.

A press conference here saw Priyanka with Anil Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha.

Anil also unveiled Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan's album "Back 2 love" at the event, while Sonakshi said she was feeling wonderful to be in this scenic city.

"I was feeling grumpy (initially) as I was travelling for 32 hours, but the moment I reached here, the kind of love that was showered was unbelievable. It's a wonderful feeling to be here. I am here to entertain you all and I can assure you that this will be an unforgettable one," she said.

This is for the first time that IIFA is happening in the US.