In a landmark step, Women in Film (WIF) India, backed by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B), Government of India, has announced that it will send the country’s first-ever women-led delegation to the Toronto International Film Festival 2025 (TIFF) which is set to take place from September 4-9 this year.
As per a press release, the initiative is facilitated by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and supported by Waves Bazaar. It is conceptualised and led by WIF India and features six projects helmed by women in key creative roles.
The selections were made through a nationwide contest that drew more than 200 applications in just one week. Entries arrived from across India—including Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Manipur, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Delhi, West Bengal, and Chandigarh.
From over 23 shortlisted projects, six filmmakers were chosen as winners, including, Arshaly Jose (A Dandelion’s Dream), Deepa Bhatia (Rabbit Hole), KatyayaniKumar (Sons of The River), Madhumita Sundararaman (The Guest House), Paromita Dhar (Ulta), and Pramati Anand (A Late Autumn Dream).
The final selection was made by a distinguished international jury of producers, cultural leaders, and industry experts whose combined experience spans Academy Award–winning films, global film markets, and women’s advocacy in cinema.
“The Ministry-backed programme provides international visibility, mentorship, curated networking, and pitching/dealmaking training. It is designed to bridge the gap in representation, while creating long-term pathways for Indian women filmmakers to access global,” WIF said in a statement.
The delegation will be coordinated with Product of Culture (U.S.), which previously partnered with WIF India for its Cannes showcase. Continued mentorship will be offered by WIF India, WIF LA, Academy Award-winner Guneet Monga Kapoor, and the Jury, ensuring sustained global visibility for India’s women storytellers.
