‘The world wants to see how India lives, moves & dances' Guneet Monga
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When The Elephant Whisperers made history at the Oscars 2023, it wasn't just a proud moment for
Guneet Monga
— it was a milestone for Indian storytelling. Sharing the spotlight with Naatu Naatu's big win that same night, Guneet remembers being awed by the impact of Telugu cinema on the global stage.
In a chat with Hyderabad Times, the producer, who was in town for the 'Golden Lens' symposium hosted by YFLO, opened up about her journey, the growing resonance of local stories, and her admiration for Tollywood. 'I'm a big fan and would love to produce a Telugu film someday, if the stars align,' she said. 'I'm always thinking about how I can add value to a project, and if there's a meaningful way to contribute, I'd be more than happy to be involved.
'
'RRR is one of the best examples of how local stories resonate globally'
For Guneet, the success of Indian films on the world stage boils down to authenticity. 'RRR is one of the best examples of how a deeply local story can have global resonance.
Whether it's Baahubali or RRR, our culture, language, and music captivate audiences around the world.' It's not just the big, grand spectacles that travel well. Films like The Lunchbox, Masaan, and The Elephant Whisperers also struck a chord globally because they're rooted, real, and unmistakably Indian, she reckons.
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'These are the stories the world wants. People may not travel here, but they're deeply curious about India, our culture, our people, and even our dances.
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'My memories of Hyderabad are all about great food and vibrant places'
Guneet finds something enchanting about Hyderabad every time she visits. 'My memories of Hyderabad are all about great food and vibrant places. And what really fascinates me is the number of lehenga stores! I always find myself looking at those big wedding wear storefronts, they're everywhere.'
There's one Hyderabad staple she's looking to discover more of though. 'A really good biryani! I don't have a go-to spot yet, but I'd love to try one.
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'Many films have left an impact on me'
Whether it's the timeless charm of Bollywood or the quiet brilliance of international indies, Guneet draws inspiration from across the spectrum. 'My first memory of cinema was watching Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. I was completely obsessed with the love story and the romance,' she recalls, adding, 'And then I remember watching Boyhood on a flight, it completely blew my mind.
I couldn't stop thinking about how someone could film for so many years (the film was shot across 12 years from 2002–2013) and piece it together.
That kind of ambitious storytelling inspires me.'
'Portrayal of women is something I deeply care about'
Known for championing strong women-centric narratives, Guneet believes the strength of a woman's portrayal lies in thoughtful writing, not just lead roles. 'One of the films I'm proud to have produced is Soorarai
Pottru.
Though it was Suriya sir's film, Aparna Balamurali's character sparked meaningful conversation,' she says, adding, 'In The Elephant Whisperers, Bellie stood out so beautifully, just like Huma Qureshi did in Gangs of Wasseypur.' For her, what matters most is depth. 'Even submissive characters must have redemption. The portrayal of women is something I deeply care about as a producer.'
'I fall in love with scripts that move or challenge me'
Reflecting on her journey post-Oscar, Guneet said the recognition has opened doors and pushed her to dream bigger.
'It expanded what's possible for me as a filmmaker,' she said. But for her, it's never about chasing a trend. 'I fall in love with scripts that move or challenge me,' she added. Among the stories she's hoping to bring to the screen someday is a full-fledged female-led action film. 'I think we're ready for that, and I'd love to be part of making it happen.
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'We're building a space for women in cinema to connect, be heard & create change'
At the 'Golden Lens' symposium hosted by YFLO, Guneet struck a chord with an audience of over 200 with a nearly two-hour-long conversation as candidly she spoke about the highs and heartbreaks of her journey.
'Life gave me 10 'Nos' before a single 'Yes', but I chose to celebrate every 'No.' Because each one took me a step closer,' she said, drawing applause. She also spoke passionately about the Women in Film – India Chapter, part of the global WIF network.
'Less than 10% of Indian film directors are women. That reality deeply concerns me,' she said, adding, 'Through this chapter, we want to build a space where women in cinema can connect, be heard, and create lasting change.'
-Shreya Varanasi
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