Hyderabad, July 16, 2025 — “I lived in a rented house for 20 years, dreaming of owning one for my parents. Life gave me 10 ‘Nos’ before a single ‘Yes.’ But I chose to celebrate every ‘No’ — because each one took me a step closer,” said Academy Award-winning producer Guneet Monga, as she addressed an audience of over 200 at the ‘Golden Lens’ symposium, hosted by Young FICCI Ladies Organisation (YFLO) at Hotel ITC Kakatiya.
Monga, known for producing critically acclaimed films such as The Lunchbox, Masaan, Pagglait, and the Oscar-winning documentary short The Elephant Whisperers, was in conversation with Ms. Pallavi Jain, Chairperson of YFLO Hyderabad. With warmth and candor, she shared the highs and lows of her personal and professional journey, leaving the audience inspired and emotional.
Welcoming Guneet, Pallavi Jain said, “As Chairperson, my guiding vision has always been simple but powerful — Knowledge is Power. Guneet Monga embodies this. Her story of perseverance and impact shows us that when a woman chooses to grow, learn, and conquer, the world takes notice.”
Sharing her plans, Guneet revealed her latest initiative: Women in Film – India Chapter, a part of the global Women In Film (WIF) network. “Less than 10% of Indian film directors are women. That reality deeply concerns me. Through this chapter, we aim to create a platform where women in cinema can connect, be heard, and drive real policy change,” she said.
The India chapter will focus on building a supportive peer network and advocating for gender equity within the Indian film industry — an effort Monga sees as both personal and urgent.
Hyderabad, Biryani, and Tollywood Dreams
Speaking to the media before the event, Guneet shared her fondness for Hyderabad and its legendary Biryani. “Hyderabad feels like home. I would love to collaborate with celebrated artists from the Tollywood industry,” she said with a smile.
The interactive session concluded with a vibrant Q&A, during which Guneet responded to questions from enthusiastic YFLO and FLO members, further emphasising her belief in community and collaboration.