"we’re putting real structure behind the idea of equality"
Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga has launched a major new initiative at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.
The Indian producer is spotlighting three emerging female filmmakers as part of the debut of Women in Film India (WIF India), a new chapter she leads under the global Women in Film and Television network.
The inaugural WIF India Fellowship: Cannes Producers Edition is supporting three Indian producers, Tillotama Shome, Rucha Pathak and Dimpy Agarwal, by giving them access to the prestigious Producers Network at the Cannes Film Market.
Guneet Monga said: “With WIF India, we’re putting real structure behind the idea of equality – mentorship, access, and leadership pathways.
“This launch is just the beginning of a long-term commitment in investing in women not just for today, but for the future of the Indian entertainment industry.”
The initiative marks a significant milestone for gender equity in South Asia’s screen industries.
It aims to offer international exposure, career advancement, and long-term mentorship opportunities.
The three fellows were selected for their creative impact and leadership potential.
Acclaimed actress and producer Tillotama Shome is known for Shadowbox, which premiered at Berlinale.
Veteran studio executive Rucha Pathak has led large-scale film productions in India, while independent producer Dimpy Agarwal is recognised for storytelling focused on social change.
In addition to the main fellowships, WIF India has awarded a special accreditation grant to Shefali Bhushan, a standout producer from the Marathi-language film industry.
The grant extends WIF India’s reach to regional voices often underrepresented on the global stage.
Kirsten Schaffer, CEO of Women in Film, explained:
“Our partnership with Women in Film, India marks an important step toward building a strong, interconnected community that supports women across all aspects of the screen industries.
“This fellowship is a key part of the solution to ensuring that women have equal opportunity to create high-quality film and television.”
View this post on Instagram
WIF India joins a global coalition of more than 50 Women in Film chapters working across six continents.
It is supported by Women In Film Los Angeles (WIF LA) and Women in Film and Television International (WIFTI), long-time advocates for equitable representation in entertainment.
Fellows will take part in mentorship and global networking opportunities during Cannes.
They will also explore international co-production and financing landscapes.
As part of the programme, participants are expected to share their experiences with the wider WIF India community, creating a multiplier effect that extends the impact of the initiative well beyond the festival.
Each of the four selected producers represents a different facet of India’s evolving creative ecosystem – regional cinema, independent storytelling, mainstream industry, and global-facing art film – showcasing the diversity and ambition of Indian women in film today.
Loading ...