Their films bring fresh perspectives that challenge conventions and expand the scope of storytelling. Most films stand out because these directors place complex female characters at the centre of narratives that feel both personal and relatable on a grand scheme of things.

Critically acclaimed festival favourites like All We Imagine as Light to mainstream hits such as Raazi and powerful OTT successes like Darlings, we have included films that highlight the diverse voices of women behind the camera. On this International Women's Day, here is a look at some remarkable Indian movies directed by women that have left a lasting mark on audiences and critics alike.

36 Chowringhee Lane (1981)

Directed by Aparna Sen

This poignant drama tells the story of Violet Stoneham, an elderly Anglo-Indian schoolteacher living in Kolkata. When a young couple befriends her, she finds a brief sense of companionship. The film beautifully captures themes of loneliness, ageing and cultural displacement.

Fire (1996)

Directed by Deepa Mehta

Part of Deepa Mehta's "Elements Trilogy," the film centres on two neglected sisters-in-law who develop an emotional and romantic relationship while living in a conservative household. It challenges societal norms around sexuality as well. Interestingly, it had sparked intense debate in India upon its release.

Darmiyaan: In Between (1997)

Directed by Kalpana Lajmi

It is set in the Hindi film industry of the 1940s and 1950s. The film follows an actress and her intersex child. They struggle with lost identity and acceptance. The story also examines stigma, motherhood and the pressures of societal expectations.

Main Hoon Na (2004)

Directed by Farah Khan

This action-comedy follows an army officer who goes undercover as a college student to protect a general’s daughter and complete a secret mission. The film mixes romance, comedy and patriotism, but holds itself as a complete Bollywood entertainer.

Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)

Directed by Zoya Akhtar

Three childhood friends embark on a road trip across Spain that turns into a life-changing journey. They start confronting their fears and unresolved emotions. Interestingly, the trip becomes a celebration of friendship, love and living in the moment with your close pals.

English Vinglish (2012)

Directed by Gauri Shinde

This heartwarming drama follows Shashi, a homemaker who feels undervalued by her family. The reason is because she cannot speak English fluently. She decides to travels to New York and secretly enrolls in an English-speaking class. She goes on a journey of earning self-confidence and self-respect. The movie is led by a powerful performance from Sridevi. It celebrates dignity, identity and the strength of ordinary women.

Kajarya (2013)

Directed by Madhureeta Anand

Set in rural India, the film revolves around Kajarya, a woman forced to participate in the killing of newborn girls as part of the practice of female infanticide. When an urban journalist begins investigating the issue, the narrative exposes the disturbing intersection of patriarchy, poverty and social complicity.

Talvar (2015)

Directed by Meghna Gulzar

It is inspired by the real-life Noida double murder case. This investigative drama examines the death of a teenage girl and the family’s domestic help. Through multiple perspectives and conflicting theories, it questions the reliability of evidence and the flaws within the investigative system.

Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)

Directed by Zoya Akhtar

This ensemble family drama is set aboard a luxury cruise. It explores the dysfunctions within a wealthy Delhi family celebrating their anniversary. Beneath the glamour lie strained relationships, gender expectations and personal ambitions.

Parched (2015)

Directed by Leena Yadav

It is set in rural Rajasthan. The film follows four women who struggle against oppressive traditions, abusive relationships and rigid gender roles. However, they form a deep bond with one another, as they begin to question the restrictions placed on their lives. Overall, Parched is a powerful exploration of female friendship, desire and rebellion against patriarchy.

Dear Zindagi (2016)

Directed by Gauri Shinde

The film centres on Kaira (Alia Bhatt), a young cinematographer struggling with career setbacks and complicated relationships. Her life begins to change when she starts therapy with an unconventional psychologist, Dr. Jehangir Khan (Shah Rukh Khan). Through their conversations, the film explores mental health, emotional baggage and the courage it takes to confront one’s past.

A Death in the Gunj (2016)

Directed by Konkona Sen Sharma

It is set during a family holiday in 1979. It follows a shy young man who becomes increasingly alienated amid subtle cruelty and emotional neglect. The most interesting part is that the film examines toxic masculinity, vulnerability and the pressures of conforming to social expectations.

Nil Battey Sannata (2016)

Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari

This inspiring drama tells the story of a domestic worker who enrolls in school alongside her teenage daughter to motivate her to study. It explores class barriers, motherhood and the belief that education can truly change lives and circumstances.

Lipstick Under My Burkha (2016)



Directed by Alankrita Shrivastava

This bold drama tells the intertwined stories of four women from different generations, who secretly pursue their desires and ambitions while living in a conservative society. By exploring sexuality, independence and identity, the film challenges the restrictions imposed on women and became widely discussed for its fearless storytelling.

Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017)

Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari

Bareilly Ki Barfi is a lively romantic comedy about a free-spirited small-town woman who falls for the author of a novel that mirrors her own life. The story turns into a playful love triangle filled with humour, quirky characters and charming small-town energy.

Village Rockstars (2017)

Village Rockstars is a coming-of-age drama directed by Rima Das. It is set in a remote village in Assam and follows the story of a 10-year-old girl named Dhunu. Her dream is to own a guitar and form her own rock band.

Raazi (2018)

Directed by Meghna Gulzar

This movie is set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war. The story follows Sehmat, an ordinary young woman who becomes an undercover spy after marrying into a Pakistani military family. She is torn between duty and humanity, as she navigates dangerous situations to pass critical information to India. The film explores espionage with emotional depth.

Gully Boy (2019)

Directed by Zoya Akhtar

Gully Boy is inspired by Mumbai’s underground hip-hop scene. The film follows Murad (Ranveer Singh), a young man from the city’s slums who dreams of becoming a rapper. Using music as a voice against inequality, he navigates love, friendship and ambition while chasing his dreams.

The Sky Is Pink (2019)

Directed by Shonali Bose

Based on a true story, the film chronicles the life of motivational speaker Aisha Chaudhary and the journey of her parents as they raise a child with a life-threatening illness. Told through Aisha’s perspective, the narrative celebrates love and the strength of family.

Bulbbul (2020)

Directed by Anvita Dutt

This film is set in 19th-century Bengal. It explores gothic horror with feminist themes. It follows Bulbbul, a young bride who grows into a mysterious and powerful woman while rumours spread about supernatural killings in the village. Through haunting visuals, the film explores trauma, patriarchy and revenge.

Guilty (2020)

Directed by Ruchi Narain

This film is in a Delhi college. The story unfolds after a sexual assault allegation disrupts a close-knit group of friends. Through the perspective of a songwriter trying to uncover the truth, the film examines consent, privilege and the complexities of the #MeToo movement in India.

Darlings (2022)

Directed by Jasmeet K. Reen

This OTT movie is set in Mumbai. It is ideally a dark comedy-drama that follows Badru, a young woman trapped in an abusive marriage with her volatile husband. When the violence escalates, she and her mother decide to take matters into their own hands.

Wild Swans (2023)

Directed by Rajni Basumatary

This Boro-language drama tells interwoven stories of women in a conflict-affected region of Northeast India. They come together to challenge patriarchy and violence. Interestingly, the film also boasts an all-female cast.

Laapataa Ladies (2024)

Directed by Kiran Rao

This movie is in rural India in the early 2000s. It follows two newly married brides who accidentally get swapped during a train journey. Their unexpected journeys lead them to discover independence, identity and the complexities of social expectations.

All We Imagine as Light (2024)

Directed by Payal Kapadia

This poetic drama follows two nurses in Mumbai navigating loneliness, friendship and personal desires in a bustling city. The film delicately portrays the emotional lives of working women while reflecting on migration, love and belonging.

Santosh (2024)

Directed by Sandhya Suri

This gritty crime drama follows Santosh, a young widow who inherits her late husband’s position as a police constable in rural North India. When a young girl is murdered, Santosh becomes involved in the investigation alongside a senior female officer. The film explores systemic corruption, gender dynamics and the difficult realities of policing.

Boong (2024)

Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi

Boong is a tender coming-of-age drama set in the hills of Manipur. The film follows a young boy who dreams of reuniting with his estranged father who lives across the border in Myanmar. As he embarks on a journey shaped by innocence, longing and imagination, the story gently explores childhood resilience, migration, and the emotional landscapes of border communities.