The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards lit up Los Angeles on March 17 with a star-studded event at the Dolby Theatre. But it was Taylor Swift who stole the show, picking up a stack of fan-voted awards and showing the world why she’s still at the top of her game.
Swift was the talk of the night. She took home Artist of the Year and the Tour of the Century award for her massive, globe-trotting Eras Tour. The tour, which kicked off exactly two years before the awards night, covered five continents and wrapped up in Vancouver in late 2024. Swift described it as the toughest challenge of her career but also the most rewarding. In a pre-recorded video message, she said the three-and-a-half-hour shows pushed her limits, but the energy and support from fans made it all worth it.
Taylor Swift celebrates her Artist of the Year win at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, adding another milestone to her record-breaking Eras TourGetty Images
Swift also snagged wins for her tour wardrobe (Favourite Tour Style), her tradition of surprise songs at each show, and the Best Music Video for "Fortnight," her collaboration with Post Malone. Another fan-favourite moment was when her boyfriend, NFL star Travis Kelce, made a surprise appearance on stage at her London show. That earned them the Favourite Surprise Guest award, further extending their power couple status beyond football and music.
Though she wasn’t at the ceremony in person, Swift’s presence was everywhere. She even shared an acoustic version of “Mirrorball” from the tour’s opening night, adding a personal touch for her loyal fans.
Swifties rejoice as Taylor Swift takes home the Tour of the Century award for her iconic Eras TourGetty Images
But Swift wasn’t the only one in the spotlight. Lady Gaga received the Innovator Award for her outstanding contributions to music and pop culture. Mariah Carey was celebrated with the Icon Award, and Nelly took home the Landmark Award, marking his long-standing influence on the industry.
The show, hosted by LL Cool J, was packed with performances from stars like Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, and Muni Long. Morgan Wallen also made a big splash, tying Swift in major categories. Meanwhile, other winners included Sabrina Carpenter, Kendrick Lamar, and SZA, showing the diversity and talent thriving in today’s music scene.
In all, it was a night that celebrated the power of music and the deep bond artists share with their fans. But above all, it was Taylor Swift’s night to shine.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.