Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga announces WIF India chapter with inaugural Cannes fellowship spotlighting women shaping the future of Indian cinema
Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga Kapoor is making a powerful statement at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival with the official launch of Women in Film India (WIF India), an initiative aimed at advancing gender equity in the Indian entertainment industry.
As part of its debut, WIF India has unveiled its first-ever Cannes Producers Fellowship, spotlighting three exceptional Indian women producers: actor-turned-producer Tillotama Shome (Shadowbox), creative veteran Rucha Pathak, and socially driven independent filmmaker Dimpy Agarwal. Each was selected for their visionary storytelling and leadership in shaping India’s cinematic future.
“With WIF India, we’re putting real structure behind the idea of equality — mentorship, access, and leadership pathways,” said Monga Kapoor. “This launch is just the beginning of a long-term commitment to investing in women not just for today, but for the future of the Indian entertainment industry.”
The fellowship grants these mid-career producers full access to the Cannes Producers Network, offering direct exposure to international markets, co-production deals, and funding platforms. In addition, Shefali Bhushan, a prominent Marathi-language producer, received a special accreditation grant to ensure wider regional representation.
Supported by Women in Film Los Angeles (WIF LA) and Women in Film and Television International (WIFTI), the Indian chapter joins a global network of more than 50 affiliates advocating for women’s empowerment in media and screen industries across six continents.
“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,” said Kirsten Schaffer, CEO of Women in Film.
The fellowship also includes a mentorship component and requires participants to share their experiences and learnings with the broader WIF India community — amplifying the program’s impact and building a sustainable model of collective growth.
With this bold move, Guneet Monga Kapoor not only brings Indian talent to the global spotlight but also cements her legacy as a driving force for inclusivity and innovation in cinema.