Academy Award-winning producer Guneet Monga Kapoor has launched a new program at the Cannes Film Festival to support rising Indian women producers. Her new initiative, the Women in Film India (WIF India) Fellowship, highlights three talented producers and gives them global exposure.
WIF India, officially introduced this month, selected actor and producer Tillotama Shome, veteran creative producer Rucha Pathak, and independent producer Dimpy Agarwal as the first fellows of the program. Each brings unique experience and fresh stories from India’s growing film industry.
“With WIF India, we are building a real structure for equality,” said Monga Kapoor. “This launch is the start of a long-term investment in women, not just for today, but for the future of Indian entertainment.”
The fellowship gives these mid-career producers access to the Producers Network at the Cannes Film Market. They will meet global filmmakers, explore co-production deals, and represent the diversity of Indian cinema on an international stage.
Besides the main fellows, WIF India also awarded a special grant to Shefali Bhushan, a producer from the Marathi-language film industry. This support shows WIF India’s focus on promoting regional talent as well.
WIF India works in partnership with Women In Film Los Angeles (WIF LA) and Women in Film and Television International (WIFTI). The Indian chapter joins over 50 similar organizations worldwide, all aiming to create gender equality in entertainment.
“Our partnership with Women in Film India is an important step,” said Kirsten Schaffer, CEO of Women in Film. “This fellowship helps ensure women get equal chances to create high-quality film and TV content.”
The selected fellows will receive mentorship, learn about international financing, and build global connections. They will also share their experiences with the wider WIF India community, spreading knowledge and growing the program’s impact beyond Cannes.
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