"When women come together, great things happen" – Seema Sajdeh on all-women sets
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 actor and fashion designer Seema Sajdeh 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.
In conversation with her, she revealed that there are two women who truly inspire her, "I find my mom the most inspiring. She has been an inspiration to me throughout my life,” she quipped. Naming another big influence in her life, Sajdeh was quick to name her BFF Malaika Arora. "I find Malaika very, very inspiring. Everyone should take a page out of her book," she said.
She also gave a shoutout to her 'tribe', "My fellow Bollywood wives, yes—my tribe! I find them very inspiring."
How is it working on an all-women set?
Having worked on a set predominantly filled with women on 'The Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives', Sajdeh reflected on the unique energy such environments bring. "When women come together, great things happen. I always knew it would work—I never doubted that. I didn’t know how well it was going to do, but I knew that with so many inspiring women in one room, it would be something to talk about," she told us.
Seema also took a moment to acknowledge her producer Aneesha Baig, celebrating her achievements, especially the show that brought the Bollywood wives, including Seema, into the spotlight. "A big shout-out to her—finally, better late than never!"
A stereotype that still exists
Discussing the portrayal of female characters in Bollywood, Sajdeh highlighted the persistent issue of misogyny in the industry. “I just think that misogyny still exists, and misogynists still do well in our country. That’s a red flag," she pointed out.
However, she also acknowledged the progress made in recent years. "I don’t want to take away from the great films that have been made because I watch them myself. So, I don’t want to be hypocritical about it, but I think the balance still needs to shift," Sajdeh added.
What's on Sajdeh’s watchlist?
When asked about a recent show she couldn’t stop watching, Sajdeh revealed she was completely captivated by 'Adolescence'. ”I was blown away. I started watching it at 10 o’clock at night, thinking I’d watch one episode and then sleep. I stayed up till 4 a.m. to finish it," she admitted.
She further revealed that the show left a deep impact on her, "I couldn’t stop. It was gripping. I was oscillating between awe and crying, and that last scene—I just couldn’t take it. It’s a must-watch for every parent out there."
From celebrating and inspiring women to calling out the need for better representation in Bollywood, Seema Sajdeh continues to champion important conversations within the industry.
What's on Sajdeh’s watchlist?
From celebrating and inspiring women to calling out the need for better representation in Bollywood, Seema Sajdeh continues to champion important conversations within the industry.
