Synopsis : Indian cinema began as an all-male affair. But before long, pioneers like Dadasaheb Phalke, Kamalabai Kamat, Durga Khote opened the doors of the industry for women. In its 125+ years history, there are many instances of women excelling in different fields of Indian cinema. But even today, it is doubtful if our industry has become a level playing field in terms of gender equity. This session features a conversation with threewomen cinema professionals discussing the challenges and joys of women working in the Indian film industry.

Speakers:

Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari is an Artist, Filmmaker and Writer. Her acclaimed movies, short films and web series, Nil Battey Sannata, Amma Kanakku, Bareilly ki Barfi, Panga, Ghar ki Murgi, Break-Point, Ankahi (Anthology), and most recently Faadu have brought her appreciation for her craft in writing and direction.

Shweta Venkat Mathew is an award-winning Indian Film Editor who has edited several critically acclaimed films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Newton, Bhonsle and the documentary Supermen of Malegaon. An FTII alumna, her filmography also boasts of mainstream films like Hasee Toh Phasee, Veere Di Wedding, Haseen Dillruba and the very recent director Sooraj Barjatya’s Uunchaii.

Moderator:

A seasoned broadcast journalist, Puja Talwar is the former Editor - Entertainment at NDTV. In her accomplished career, she has hosted prime time TV shows, moderated discussions and interviewed a host of celebrities and legends from film industry. Puja received the Indian Television Award for the documentary Provoked in 2004.

Session Coordinator:
Ashim S Paul, Assistant Professor, SRFTI