FLO Indore –In conversation with Zoya Akhtar

FLO Indore had the distinct honor of welcoming Zoya Akhtar, the renowned writer, director, and screenwriter, to their event. Akhtar, known for her critically acclaimed films such as Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Dil Dhadakne Do, and Gully Boy, has carved a niche for herself in Indian cinema with her unique storytelling and compelling character portrayals.

FLO Indore’s commitment to inclusivity was evident throughout the event. This special difference was exemplified by the presence of seven students and two translators from the Indore Deaf Bilingual Academy, who also attended the event. FLO believes in creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, and this event was a testament to that commitment.

The event saw an impressive turnout, with around 350 enthusiastic members in attendance. The excitement in the room was palpable as members eagerly anticipated the opportunity to hear from one of the industry’s most influential filmmakers. Our fearless Chairperson Ar Vibha Jain Sethi moderated the session making it lively and interesting.

Zoya engaged in an enlightening discussion, answering a wide range of questions about her films, her personal journey, and her perspective on the world of cinema. She shared fascinating insights into her creative process, the challenges she faced in the industry, and the inspiration behind some of her most beloved films.

Zoya emphasized a flexible approach, spending months on writing but acknowledging project-specific variations and external dependencies like actor scheduling.

She believes a film takes on a life of its own after release and that a director must accept its fate. Zoya injects her personal values into her male characters, reflecting her desired qualities in men. She emphasized the importance of friendship in her films. Driven by a clear ambition to direct, ignited at 15 after watching Mira Nair’s “Salaam Bombay!” Zoya highlighted the strong influence of movies in her life. When asked specific rapid-fire questions, her favorite Film is “The Godfather”, her dream character creation is to make a superhero like Superman or Spiderman film. She likes to dance, read, and spend time with her three dogs. Her most embarrassing moment was firing an actress on the set of “Made in Heaven.” When asked about an alternative career path, her answer was – Law.

The afternoon was a memorable and overwhelming experience for the members, who were captivated by her insightful experiences and contributions to the art of filmmaking. The event was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees and making it an unforgettable highlight for FLO Indore.

Throughout the session, the audience responded with cheers and applause, showing their admiration and appreciation for Zoya’s work and her candid reflections. The members were deeply inspired by the wealth of knowledge she shared, and her presence was met with great enthusiasm and respect.

In her address, the Chairperson of FLO Indore expressed her gratitude and excitement, stating, “We are incredibly honored to have Zoya Akhtar with us today. Her work has not only entertained but also inspired millions, and her presence here is a testament to her dedication and passion for cinema. This event is a milestone for FLO Indore, and we are thrilled to have had the opportunity to learn from such an esteemed filmmaker. The enthusiasm and engagement from our members today reflect the impact of Zoya’s work and the inspiration she provides to all of us.”

The Chairperson’s words echoed the sentiments of all those present, underscoring the significance of the event and the profound influence of Zoya Akhtar’s visit on the FLO Indore community. The program was conducted seamlessly by Joint Secretary, FLO Indore, Ms. Richa Sancheti, whose excellent coordination ensured the event’s smooth flow.

The occasion was further graced by the presence of several distinguished members, including Founder Member Ms. Aarti Saanghi, GB Member Ms. Meetu Kohli, Immediate Past President Ms. Mamta Bakliwal, and CSR Head Ms. Rachana Mittal.

During the discussion, the topic of women’s careers in the Hindi film industry as directors was highlighted. Zoya emphasized the bright prospects for women in this field, noting the increasing acceptance and appreciation of female directors in the world of cinema. She spoke about the evolving landscape of the film industry, where women are making significant strides and inspiring others through their creativity and resilience. The members were encouraged by Zoya’s optimism and her testament to the growing opportunities for women filmmakers, reinforcing the belief that the future of cinema is increasingly inclusive and diverse.

Zoya Akhtar’s visit not only celebrated her achievements but also underscored the important role of women in shaping the future of Indian cinema. Her insights and experiences served as a beacon of inspiration, empowering the members of FLO Indore to pursue their passions and break new ground in their respective fields.