Panaji, Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024 opened its panel discussions with a thought-provoking session on Women’s Safety and Cinema. Moderated by acclaimed actor and producer Vani Tripathi Tikoo, the panel featured prominent voices from the film industry, including filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, actors Suhasini Maniratnam, Kushboo Sundar, and Bhumi Pednekar.
The discussion delved into critical issues such as gender representation in cinema, safety protocols for women in the film industry, and how movies influence societal attitudes toward gender equality.
The panellists shared personal stories and insights about the challenges faced by women in the industry. They underscored the need for creating safer, more inclusive environments on and off the set.
Suhasini Maniratnam highlighted a common disparity on film sets: male actors often take liberties to modify scenes, a privilege rarely extended to their female counterparts. “It’s time women took charge of their scenes and actively negotiated instead of being passive participants,” she said. She also emphasized the importance of work ethics, urging industry professionals to prioritize them from the start of their careers.
Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali stressed the need to establish a culture where women can focus on their craft without concerns about their treatment on set. “There can be no tolerance for gender injustice in the workplace,” he stated firmly.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on the portrayal of women in cinema and its influence on societal norms. Actor Bhumi Pednekar passionately argued that how women are depicted on screen directly impacts their dignity and the creation of respectful spaces. “Representation matters,” she said, adding that films must contribute to an empowering narrative for women.
Kushboo Sundar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing her commitment to creating entertaining yet responsible cinema. “Entertainment and equality can coexist,” she remarked, noting that filmmakers have a duty to uphold principles of respect and dignity in their work.
The interactive session saw enthusiastic participation from the audience, with questions addressing the evolving role of women in cinema and the steps needed to ensure their safety and success.
The panellists collectively agreed that the portrayal of women with dignity sets a vital precedent for the industry, influencing both professional practices and societal perceptions.
As the first panel of this year’s IFFI, the session set a strong precedent for meaningful conversations at the festival. Beyond celebrating cinematic artistry, IFFI 2024 is also positioning itself as a platform for critical discourse on the film industry’s responsibilities in shaping a safer, more inclusive future.
Stay tuned for more updates from IFFI 2024 as the festival continues to bring together creative minds from around the world.