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Art & Culture

Zoya Akhtar on Breaking Bollywood Norms, Championing New Voices, and Leading with Empathy

Image Courtesy: Abheet Gidwani/Tiger Baby

25 Jul '25
By The Shift
25 Jul '25
By The Shift

The Shift highlights women’s stories through the lens of impact. It hopes to contextualize history and inspire action.

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Zoya Akhtar is an acclaimed Indian filmmaker known for bold, contemporary storytelling with universal appeal. Her work has earned an Emmy nomination, a NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film, world premieres at Cannes and Berlinale, and India’s official Oscar entry. In 2024, she served on the Marrakech Film Festival jury.

The Shift:

What is one defining moment in your career or life that empowered you to create change, and how has it shaped the path you’re on today?

Zoya:

I am a filmmaker and I work in a very commercial industry. when I wanted to make my first film I wasn’t really getting a break. It wasn’t the kind of subject that would be suitable for a mainstream audience.

I did get advised to do much more generic stories so I could get my foot in the door but I took the decision to wait. it was a hard decision because I had to wait seven years before I got to a chance but it set the tone for my career and I was seen as someone with her own voice.  Now I follow that instinct when meeting younger artists, I look for their voice not for their supposed ‘saleability’.

 

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The Shift:

As we look to the future, what is one key change or innovation you believe is essential for advancing equality and empowerment in your field?

Zoya:

In my field, which is film, I think the only change that needs to happen is opportunity. I really believe that once equal opportunity is given, women will do the rest. Not saying every single one will be amazing, but that isn’t the case with male filmmakers either. I just think we will be surprised with the stories and perspectives once we share the platform. It’s gotten better, and we have seen some amazing work coming out of women simply because they got the opportunity.

 

The Shift:

What is the legacy you hope to leave behind as a changemaker and leader in your industry?

Zoya:

My body of work will obviously be my legacy, but beyond that I would wish to leave behind the importance of empathy. I hope to instill empathy through my Films, through my collaborations and through  how I conduct myself in my field.