IFFI panel discusses women’s safety and gender representation in cinema

Panaji: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) opened with a powerful panel discussion on women’s safety and gender representation in cinema on Nov 21. Moderated by Vani Tripathi Tikoo, the session brought together notable personalities, including Imtiaz Ali, Suhasini Maniratnam, Kushboo Sundar, and Bhumi Pednekar, who shared insights on creating safer work environments and fostering equality in the film industry.

Setting the stage for change

The opening panel discussion at IFFI 2024 delved into pressing issues of women’s safety in the film industry. Moderated by actor-producer Vani Tripathi Tikoo, the session aimed to spotlight the challenges women face and the steps needed to ensure an equitable and safe working environment.

Empowering women on and off screen

Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali underscored the importance of fostering a work culture where women can focus on their craft without fear of mistreatment. “Filmmakers cannot tolerate gender injustice on sets,” he asserted, calling for a zero-tolerance approach to harassment.

Actor Suhasini Maniratnam shared personal anecdotes, highlighting how male actors often assert influence over creative decisions, a privilege rarely extended to women. “Women must actively negotiate and take charge of their representation,” she emphasized, urging for a shift in dynamics.

Portrayal of women matters

Actor Bhumi Pednekar passionately argued that the dignity and portrayal of women on screen significantly shape societal attitudes. “Empowering representations set the tone for a respectful and inclusive environment,” she said. Kushboo Sundar echoed these sentiments, stating that she ensures her work upholds principles of equality and respect while remaining entertaining.

Audience engagement and industry accountability

The panel saw robust engagement from the audience, with questions focusing on the evolving roles of women in cinema and strategies to create inclusive spaces. The panellists collectively emphasized that achieving equality is not just about on-screen roles but also involves addressing systemic issues within the industry.

Paving the way for a safer future

The discussion set a progressive tone for IFFI 2024, demonstrating the festival’s commitment to examining cinema’s role in shaping societal values. By spotlighting gender representation and workplace safety, the panel called for actionable changes to make the film industry a beacon of inclusivity and respect.

This conversation highlighted cinema’s potential to not only entertain but also inspire systemic shifts in culture, laying a foundation for a safer and more equitable future for all.