In an exclusive and engaging panel discussion at ‘The Hollywood Reporter India’s - Women in Entertainment: Power List 2025’, held on March 21st at the Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, renowned personalities from the industry came together to share their insights. At the event, Hook had the exclusive opportunity to meet with some stellar women, including Tejasswi Prakash, Aditi Rao Hydari, Tillotama Shome and many more.
The event was also graced by celebrated figures like Kiran Rao, Aditi Rao Hydari, Janhvi Kapoor and Guneet Monga, with author and journalist Anupama Chopra moderating the discussion.
The conversations highlighted the importance of authenticity and audience connection in the entertainment industry. Panelists reflected on their careers, discussing the delicate balance between commercial cinema and meaningful content that resonates with a broader audience. The discussion shed light on the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry, emphasizing the need for resilience and composure in the face of criticism.
At the event, Hook had an exclusive chat with Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia for our series - ‘What’s the Question? - Rapid Edition’. The series explores the essence of being a celebrity - the journey to stardom, living under the constant lens of the paparazzi, women in Bollywood, and the impact on the consumers of celebrity content. The filmmaker shared insights on women who inspire her, the stereotypes she’s tired of seeing, and her dream collaboration.
Payal on the three 'incredibly talented women in ‘All We Imagine as Light’
Kapadia who won the Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in 2024 for her fiction feature debut ‘All We Imagine as Light’, was quick to express gratitude for the three actresses in her film—Chhaya Kadam, Kani Kusruti and Divya Prabha. Heaping praise on the actors, the filmmaker said, "Not only are they incredibly talented artists, but they are also wonderful human beings. Their creativity and dedication inspire me every day."
What stereotype frustrates Kapadia?
Further, we asked Kapadia about a stereotype she’s tired of seeing. Revealing that she is tired of seeing outdated representations of women, Payal said, "The manic pixie representation is a bit boring now." The manic pixie dream girl trope often portrays female characters as quirky, carefree muses whose sole purpose is to inspire the male protagonist. Her response reflects a growing call for deeper, more complex female characters in storytelling.
Movie recommendations ft. Payal Kapadia
When asked about a film she would recommend, the award-winning director took one name - 'Attam', a movie that resonated deeply with her. "I really liked it. I think it’s an important film to watch, especially in the context of this event, where we are celebrating women in the entertainment industry. 'Attam' is about theatre, and I feel like it’s a story that every woman will connect with," she added.
A Dream Collaboration with Agnès Varda
While Payal has worked with many talented names, she informed us that she would next love to co-direct a film with late French director Agnès Varda, known for her pioneering work in cinema.
"I really like Agnès Varda, although she is no longer with us. Her films have always inspired me. It would have been a fangirl moment just to be in her presence," she added. Varda, a visionary filmmaker known for her unique storytelling and feminist perspectives, continues to be an inspiration for many in the industry.
From admiring strong female artists to advocating for better representation in films, this filmmaker’s insights reflect the evolving landscape of women in cinema—one where talent, depth, and authenticity take center stage.
