Jaipur, Rajasthan – March 8, 2025: The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) marked a significant milestone in its Silver Jubilee celebrations with a special International Women’s Day event titled “The Journey of Women in Cinema.” Held at the Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar, this thought-provoking discussion featured Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit and Academy Award-winning producer Guneet Monga, moderated by IIFA’s Vice President, Noreen Khan.
The engaging conversation explored the evolving landscape of women in cinema, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that have shaped their journeys. As IIFA celebrated 25 years of cinematic excellence and global cultural unity, the event reinforced its commitment to fostering meaningful dialogues and championing women in film.
Madhuri Dixit, one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actresses, reflected on her illustrious 39-year career, detailing how the portrayal of women in Indian cinema has undergone a remarkable transformation. Known for her grace, versatility, and strong screen presence, Madhuri emphasized how female-led narratives have gained prominence, giving actresses more dynamic and powerful roles.
“When I started my journey, the industry was vastly different. Women were often limited to specific roles, but today, we are seeing powerful female-driven stories that resonate globally. The shift has been gradual but profound,” said Madhuri, recalling her experiences working in an industry that has constantly evolved.
On the other hand, Guneet Monga, an Oscar-winning producer recognized for her bold storytelling and international impact, provided insight into the behind-the-scenes struggles and triumphs of women filmmakers. She spoke about her journey as an independent producer and the challenges she faced in establishing herself in a male-dominated industry.
“There was a time when funding female-led projects was a struggle. But persistence, collaboration, and the sheer determination to tell important stories have led to change. Winning an Academy Award was not just a personal achievement but a moment of validation for women in Indian cinema,” said Guneet, referring to her historic Oscar win for Best Documentary Short Subject.
As the conversation unfolded, the two distinguished speakers explored how Indian women are making an indelible mark not only in Bollywood but also in international cinema. From actors to producers, directors to screenwriters, the growing presence of women in key decision-making roles has been instrumental in reshaping the industry.
Madhuri and Guneet shared stories of resilience, offering encouragement to aspiring filmmakers and artists. “The most important lesson I’ve learned is that women must believe in their own voice,” Madhuri added, stressing the importance of self-confidence and persistence.
Noreen Khan, Vice President of IIFA, expressed her pride in curating this event, reaffirming IIFA’s role as a platform that amplifies the voices of women in entertainment.
“As IIFA celebrates 25 years of cinematic excellence and global impact, we reaffirm our commitment to championing women in film and beyond. ‘The Journey of Women in Cinema’ is more than just a conversation; it’s a movement. By sharing stories of resilience, creativity, and leadership, we celebrate the trailblazers who have redefined the industry and inspire the next generation to break barriers and embrace their power. Through content, events, and collaborations, IIFA continues to be a platform where voices are heard, change is embraced, and the belief that ‘I Can Make a Difference’ transforms into collective action,” said Noreen Khan.
The session concluded with an interactive segment where attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and gain deeper insights into the speakers' experiences. The discussion left an indelible mark on the audience, highlighting the power of storytelling and the impact of women-led narratives.
Marking an iconic moment in IIFA’s history, the event was a testament to the strength, resilience, and evolution of women in cinema. The conversation between Madhuri Dixit and Guneet Monga not only celebrated their achievements but also served as an inspiration for the next generation of women in the entertainment industry.
“The Journey of Women in Cinema” was not just a celebration of past achievements but a vision for the future—one where women continue to break boundaries and redefine cinema. With its legacy of promoting Indian cinema globally, IIFA remains at the forefront of fostering meaningful conversations and empowering women in entertainment.
As the lights dimmed on this impactful session, one thing was clear—women in cinema are not just changing the narrative; they are leading it.
