Guneet Monga Kapoor returns to Cannes with second cohort of Indian women filmmakers

One year after its launch at the Cannes Film Festival, Women in Film India (WIF India), founded by Academy Award-winning producer Guneet Monga Kapoor, returned to the festival with its second cohort of women filmmakers, continuing its focus on expanding global access for emerging Indian talent.

Through its scholarship initiatives for the Cannes Producers Network and Cannes Impact Lab, WIF India facilitated the participation of four producers — Molshri, Jasmin Singh, Suruchi Sharma, and Archana Borhade — at this year’s Marche du Film. The delegation engaged in industry platforms, networking forums, and curated sessions across the festival.

The participants were selected through nationwide contests conducted by the organisation, with applications reviewed by an industry jury and aligned with the Marche du Film selection process.

This year’s cohort marked a milestone for India, with two filmmakers selected for the Cannes Impact Lab, making it the country’s first double representation in the highly selective programme, which typically features a small global cohort.

Beyond facilitating attendance, the initiative focused on helping first-time participants navigate the Cannes ecosystem through mentorship, guidance, and peer support. Conversations within the cohort also centred on representation, confidence-building, and expanding opportunities for women in the global film industry.


Speaking about the initiative, Guneet Monga Kapoor said the effort aims to create pathways that did not exist for earlier generations of filmmakers.

“When I first came to Cannes fourteen years ago, nobody handed me a playbook. That is exactly what we are building now,” she said, adding that support systems are critical in turning access into meaningful opportunities.

Akshika Poddar said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to recognising the often unseen contributions of women in creative industries and enabling their leadership in shaping cultural narratives.

Rabia Chopra highlighted the importance of continuity, noting that while access is the starting point, sustained support and community are key to helping filmmakers fully leverage global platforms.

Following its second Cannes cohort, Women in Film India is expected to continue expanding its initiatives aimed at mentorship, industry access, and long-term support for women filmmakers from India.