How is WAVES Bazaar-WIF India Empowering Women Filmmakers for TIFF 2025?
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Synopsis
Discover the groundbreaking initiative by WIF India and the Ministry of I&B as they unveil the first-ever six-women delegation to TIFF 2025. This program aims to enhance visibility and create pathways for Indian women filmmakers on a global scale.
Key Takeaways
- First-ever women-led delegation to TIFF from India.
- Highlighting Indian women filmmakers on a global stage.
- Facilitated by NFDC and supported by Waves Bazaar.
- Over 200 applications received nationwide.
- Providing long-term pathways for funding and distribution.
New Delhi, Sep 4 (NationPress) Women in Film (WIF) India, supported by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B), has unveiled the nation's inaugural six-women delegation for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), commencing on September 4.
The five-day festival will wrap up on September 9. Among 23 shortlisted projects, six filmmakers emerged as winners: Arshaly Jose ('A Dandelion’s Dream'), Deepa Bhatia ('Rabbit Hole'), Katyayani Kumar ('Sons of The River'), Madhumita Sundararaman ('The Guest House'), Paromita Dhar ('Ulta'), and Pramati Anand ('A Late Autumn Dream').
This initiative, facilitated by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and backed by Waves Bazaar, the Ministry's flagship global markets platform, aims to highlight Indian women filmmakers on one of the world’s most prominent cinematic stages.
The six projects, all led by women in crucial creative roles, were selected through a nationwide competition that attracted over 200 applications within just one week.
Entries came from various regions in India, including Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Manipur, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Delhi, West Bengal, and Chandigarh.
This Ministry-supported program offers international visibility, mentorship, curated networking, and training in pitching and deal-making.
It aims to bridge the representation gap while creating long-term opportunities for Indian women filmmakers to gain access to global collaborations, funding, and distribution.
WIF India will coordinate this program with U.S.-based Product of Culture, which previously partnered with the organization for its Cannes showcase.
Ongoing mentorship will be provided by WIF India, WIF LA, Academy Award-winner Guneet Monga Kapoor, and the Jury, ensuring continuous global recognition for India’s women storytellers.
In May, it was announced that Academy Award winner Guneet Monga would spearhead this initiative, which is part of the global WIFTI (Women In Film & Television International) network, aimed at promoting gender equity in Indian screen industries, launched at the 77th Cannes Film Festival.
Founded in 1973 as Women In Film in Los Angeles, WIF has been advocating for gender equity for over 50 years.
Point of View
It is paramount to recognize the significance of initiatives like this that champion diversity and representation in the film industry. WIF India, with the support of the Ministry, is leading a transformative movement that empowers women filmmakers, ensuring their voices are heard on global platforms like TIFF 2025.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the six-women delegation to TIFF?
The purpose is to enhance visibility for Indian women filmmakers and provide them with networking, mentorship, and training opportunities on a global scale.
Who are the selected filmmakers in the delegation?
The delegation includes Arshaly Jose, Deepa Bhatia, Katyayani Kumar, Madhumita Sundararaman, Paromita Dhar, and Pramati Anand.
How were the filmmakers chosen?
Filmmakers were selected through a nationwide contest that received over 200 applications in one week.
What support will the filmmakers receive?
The filmmakers will receive international visibility, mentorship, networking opportunities, and training in pitching and deal-making.
Who is leading this initiative?
Academy Award winner Guneet Monga Kapoor is leading the initiative, aimed at promoting gender equity in Indian screen industries.
