The collaboration between Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga Kapoor‘s Women in Film India and Jio Studios marks a pivotal moment for Indian cinema. This partnership is set to empower mid-career Indian women producers by offering scholarships to attend the esteemed Producers Network at the Cannes Film Market. This initiative not only amplifies Indian creative voices on a global stage but also fosters a more inclusive industry.
Empowering Women Producers
Women in Film India, founded by Guneet Monga Kapoor, is making strides by partnering with Jio Studios, part of Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries. Their joint initiative will sponsor Indian women producers to attend the Producers Network at Cannes, an event recognized for fostering international co-productions and networking opportunities. With applications open until April 5, the chosen candidates will have the chance to engage with over 370 global producers from May 13–18.
Backing Inclusivity in Cinema
Jio Studios’ president, Jyoti Deshpande, emphasized the importance of inclusive storytelling, stating, “We believe the future of cinema is being shaped by more inclusive voices.” She highlighted the commitment to supporting women both behind and in front of the camera, stressing that representation involves those who craft the narratives. Deshpande pointed out the Cannes Producers Network as a crucial venue for international film discussions and highlighted the importance of Indian women producers participating in these dialogs.
The Vision of Guneet Monga Kapoor
Reflecting on her experiences, Guneet Monga Kapoor shared, “The Producers Network has given me some of my most formative learning as a producer.” She expressed her desire to extend similar opportunities to her peers, aiming to open global doors for talented women ready to take the leap. This initiative underscores her commitment to nurturing talent and expanding India’s cinematic footprint.
Expanding Opportunities
This partnership represents an expansion of a program that Women in Film India initiated last year. The organization’s Cannes debut supported three women producers, enhancing their prospects in the international arena. Rabia Chopra, head of development and programming at WIF India, expressed excitement about Jio Studios joining the collaboration, which aligns with their collective mission to reinforce opportunities for women in the film industry.
Eligible applicants must be India-based women producers developing a feature-length project, with a notable track record, and prepared for international collaboration. The selection will assess both their professional achievements and the potential of their projects for global impact.
