Women behind the lens in Bollywood: The trailblazers changing cinema

Alankrita Shrivastava is one of the strongest feminist voices in Indian cinema today. Her film Lipstick Under My Burkha faced censorship battles but eventually became a cultural conversation starter. With her unapologetic narratives around women’s desires, sexuality, and societal roles, she’s carved a brave path. Her work in Bombay Begums and contributions to Made in Heaven underline her commitment to stories led by women, for women.

Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari brings to the table a refreshing slice-of-life approach with stories rooted in small-town India. Her debut Nil Battey Sannata and later films like Bareilly Ki Barfi and Panga spotlight everyday characters with extraordinary aspirations. She has a knack for capturing the warmth, humor, and struggles of middle-class life, all while putting women’s voices at the forefront. Her work is a celebration of quiet strength and the joy found in ordinary moments.

Gauri Shinde made a powerful directorial debut with English Vinglish, a film that was as much a comeback vehicle for Sridevi as it was a statement on self-worth and identity. Her storytelling style is gentle yet impactful, often focusing on the internal world of her characters. With Dear Zindagi, she tackled the often-taboo subject of mental health in a refreshingly relatable manner. Gauri’s strength lies in addressing emotionally complex issues without overwhelming the audience, and that’s what makes her work resonate deeply.

Nandita Das, known for her fearless voice and socially conscious cinema, has always chosen substance over stardom. Her directorial debut Firaaq explored the aftermath of the Gujarat riots with haunting clarity. More recently, Zwigato, starring Kapil Sharma in a rare serious role, dived into the gig economy and the dignity of labor. Nandita’s work doesn’t chase box office numbers—it aims for introspection and change.

Reema Kagti, another strong voice in the industry, has always challenged genre boundaries. Whether it was her psychological thriller Talaash or the historical sports drama Gold, her projects reflect her versatility. As a writer and co-producer, Reema has been a key part of many of Excel Entertainment’s successful ventures. Along with Zoya, her focus through Tiger Baby Films has been to support female-centric narratives and push creative limits.

Zoya Akhtar is among the most celebrated modern filmmakers who has carved a niche for herself with her distinct brand of cinema. Her films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Dil Dhadakne Do, and Gully Boy bring together glossy frames with grounded narratives. Zoya has a keen eye for urban angst, complicated family dynamics, and youth-driven dreams, all presented with rich aesthetics and emotional depth. As the co-founder of Tiger Baby Films alongside Reema Kagti, she has also been instrumental in ushering in nuanced storytelling on streaming platforms, with shows like Made in Heaven and The Archies.