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The Communiqué News

Women in Film India Partners with I&B Ministry & NFDC to Spotlight Six Women-Led Projects at Toronto International Film Festival 2025

Swati Bhat

In a groundbreaking move to elevate women’s voices in cinema, Women in Film (WIF) India, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting’s WAVES Film Bazaar and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), will select six women-led Indian film projects to be showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025.

The initiative, titled #WIFIndiaAtTIFF, reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of empowering women through creativity and entrepreneurship. Led by Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga Kapoor, WIF India is calling for entries from filmmakers across India — each project must feature at least one woman in a key creative role.

“This is not just a delegation, it’s a declaration — Indian women in film are owning the global stage,” said Guneet Monga Kapoor, Founder of WIF India.

Selected filmmakers will gain access to TIFF 2025, mentorship from industry experts, and opportunities to network with international producers, distributors, and festival curators.

Entries are open until August 20, 2025, via the official WIF India website. The chosen six projects will represent India’s diverse storytelling spirit at TIFF 2025, running from September 4–14, 2025, marking a historic moment for women in Indian cinema.






Imtiaz Ali Unveils Friendship Day Film 'Side Heroes' with Star Cast

Updated: Aug 4, 2025

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 3: Renowned director Imtiaz Ali has revealed his newest project, aligning with the celebration of Friendship Day.


Imtiaz Ali Unveils Friendship Day Film 'Side Heroes' with Star Cast

Varun Sharma, Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee


In an official Instagram post, Mahaveer Jain Films released a video featuring the director alongside the lead cast, which includes the energetic Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana, and Varun Sharma. This trio is renowned for their hilarious comedic performances in the 'Stree' and 'Fukrey' series. In the video, Imtiaz Ali seems to be discussing plans for a potential film titled 'Side Heroes' with the actors, showcasing a surprising Bhojpuri accent while speaking to a friend on the phone.

Later in the video, the filmmaker hints at a story about lifelong friends, infused with humor and emotions. "It's time to celebrate friendship! To all the friends on Friendship Day," the creators mentioned in the caption. The film, directed by Ssanjay Tripathy, is penned by Siddharth Sen and Pankaj Matta. Imtiaz Ali will produce the movie alongside Mahaveer Jain, Reeyan M Shah, and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. Providing an update on the project, Varun Sharma expressed his excitement about collaborating with a dream team on a film that he described as "made by friends and for friends."

A team filled with heart and love. With a big smile and immense gratitude, I'm thrilled to be working with this incredible dream team. A film created by friends, for friends everywhere. There's nothing greater than the emotion of friendship. I'm eagerly anticipating the magic to unfold and for the world to witness this wonderfully beautiful script. See you on Friendship Day 2026 in cinemas with "Side Heroes," he wrote on Instagram. Varun also posted behind-the-scenes pictures from the team meeting, capturing everyone in high spirits.

"Side Heroes" is scheduled to begin production this year and is set to be released in theaters on Friendship Day 2026.




Maharani (2025): A Heartfelt Gujarati Cinematic Gem

Maharani is a refreshing Gujarati film that brings warmth, humor, and emotion in equal measure.


Swati Bhat

Maharani A Heartfelt Gujarati Cinematic Gem

Directed by Viral Shah, the story follows Manasi (played by Manasi Parekh), a working mother struggling to balance her home and career. When she hires Rani (Shraddha Dangar), an outspoken and quirky maid, an unlikely but touching friendship begins to form.

What starts as a typical “maid hunt” soon evolves into something deeper. The film explores themes of emotional labor, gender roles, and how women support each other in ways often unseen. Both leads deliver honest, heartfelt performances. Parekh’s portrayal of a modern woman feels authentic, while Dangar’s natural comic timing and energy add spark to every scene. Their chemistry is the backbone of the film.

Supporting actors like Ojas Rawal and Sanjay Goradia bring lightness without overshadowing the main narrative. The writing by Raam Mori and Hardik Sangani keeps things relatable, though a few subplots could’ve been more fleshed out.

Parth Bharat Thakkar’s music adds subtle emotional depth, enhancing the film’s grounded tone. Maharani isn’t flashy, but it’s sincere, entertaining, and deeply relatable—especially for urban families.





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