Goa, India – Academy Award-winning producer Guneet Monga Kapoor recently highlighted the stark gender disparity within the Indian film industry, revealing that less than 3% of the films produced annually are directed by women. Monga Kapoor, known for her work on critically acclaimed films such as "Gangs of Wasseypur," "The Lunchbox," "Masaan," and the Oscar-winning documentary short "The Elephant Whisperers", made the statement at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
Speaking with IANS, Monga Kapoor addressed the challenges she faced early in her career, stating that "As a producer, I think I faced more problems with ageism. I felt like I was always seen as someone who is young. But I don't think I was seen as other gender". However, she acknowledged the significant gender imbalance in the industry, emphasizing that "there's a lot of judgment in gender because there are statistics".
Monga Kapoor's concern stems from the fact that, despite India producing approximately 2,500 films each year, an exceedingly small fraction is directed by women. This underrepresentation highlights a systemic issue that requires urgent attention. In light of these statistics, Monga Kapoor emphasized the importance of community building and mutual support among women in the film industry. To address this disparity, she has been actively involved in building 'Women in Film,' an organization aimed at fostering a supportive community for women in cinema.
Women in Film India, in collaboration with the American distribution and marketing agency Product of Culture, recently hosted a special edition of its industry event series focused on "India to the World: Scaling Stories for a Global Audience". The session brought together key leaders shaping the future of global entertainment, including Guneet Monga Kapoor, Archana Misra Jain (CEO, Product of Culture), and Caleb Franklin (CEO, Matter Entertainment). The discussion highlighted the growing international demand for Indian storytelling and the increasing cultural influence of Indian creators across global platforms.
Aligned with its mission to support representation, opportunity, and access for women and marginalized voices, Women in Film India curated the conversation to emphasize how inclusive leadership continued to shape India's global entertainment presence.
Monga Kapoor's advocacy extends beyond highlighting the issue. Women in Film India is committed to advancing gender equity in Indian screen industries. The organization plans to create opportunities for women aspiring to careers in the film industry and will form an advisory council of industry leaders to support its initiatives. These initiatives include research, mentorship programs, and creative labs specifically designed for women filmmakers.
Moreover, Women in Film India is addressing the emotional toll of working in the entertainment industry with a new mental wellness program designed specifically for women filmmakers. The organization has launched “The Resilience Playbook,” a six-week workshop series focused on mental well-being and emotional sustainability for women working in Indian cinema. The immersive program aims to provide participants with tools to manage the pressures of an industry characterized by constant reinvention, rejection, and demanding work conditions.
Guneet Monga Kapoor's dedication to promoting gender equity in the Indian film industry is evident through her work with Women in Film India and her vocal advocacy for change. While challenges remain, her efforts are paving the way for a more inclusive and representative future for Indian cinema.
