Zoya Akhtar
Zoya Akhtar - critically acclaimed director of Luck By Chance, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Gully Boy
Excels in engaging audiences through motivational talks on creativity and storytelling.
Nisha Reddy
HospitalityWatch Zoya Akhtar Deliver Impactful Motivational Sessions
mumbai
english
10+ years
women-in-leadership, alternate thinking, creativity, diversity & inclusion, breaking barriers
About Zoya Akhtar
Zoya Akhtar is one of the most admired, influential, and path-breaking filmmakers in contemporary Indian cinema. A celebrated director, screenwriter, and producer, she has carved a niche for herself through her distinctive storytelling, nuanced character portrayals, and her ability to mirror modern society with honesty and artistic finesse. Born into the illustrious Akhtar family, daughter of legendary poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar and sister of acclaimed filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar—Zoya grew up surrounded by some of the finest creative minds in Indian entertainment. This exposure, combined with her innate passion for cinema, laid the foundation for her journey as a storyteller. She further refined her craft by studying filmmaking at New York University’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts, returning to India with a clear vision and an artistic voice uniquely her own.
Zoya made her directorial debut with the critically acclaimed Luck by Chance (2009), a film that offered a sharp and insightful look into the Hindi film industry. Her next work, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), became a cultural phenomenon, redefining modern friendship and self-discovery on screen. She followed this success with Dil Dhadakne Do (2015), a powerful and entertaining exploration of family dynamics, and Gully Boy (2019), which received widespread international acclaim and was selected as India’s official entry to the Oscars. Her ability to blend realism with commercial storytelling has made her one of the most trusted filmmakers for audiences who seek depth, relevance, and emotional resonance. Beyond films, Zoya is also a co-founder of Tiger Baby Films, a production house known for championing fresh voices and bold narratives, further solidifying her role as a leader in India’s evolving creative landscape.
When you book Zoya Akhtar, you invite more than a filmmaker, you bring in a visionary, a mentor, and a thought leader whose insights on creativity, leadership, collaboration, and modern storytelling inspire every audience she speaks to. Her journey exemplifies persistence, imagination, and an unfaltering dedication to craft, making her an exceptional speaker for corporate events, creative summits, educational institutions, and leadership forums.
Zoya Akhtar is one of the most admired, influential, and path-breaking filmmakers in contemporary Indian cinema. A celebrated director, screenwriter, and producer, she has carved a niche for herself through her distinctive storytelling, nuanced character portrayals, and her ability to mirror modern society with honesty and artistic finesse. Born into the illustrious Akhtar family, daughter of legendary poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar and sister of acclaimed filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar—Zoya grew up surrounded by some of the finest creative minds in Indian entertainment. This exposure, combined with her innate passion for cinema, laid the foundation for her journey as a storyteller. She further refined her craft by studying filmmaking at New York University’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts, returning to India with a clear vision and an artistic voice uniquely her own.
Zoya made her directorial debut with the critically acclaimed Luck by Chance (2009), a film that offered a sharp and insightful look into the Hindi film industry. Her next work, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), became a cultural phenomenon, redefining modern friendship and self-discovery on screen. She followed this success with Dil Dhadakne Do (2015), a powerful and entertaining exploration of family dynamics, and Gully Boy (2019), which received widespread international acclaim and was selected as India’s official entry to the Oscars. Her ability to blend realism with commercial storytelling has made her one of the most trusted filmmakers for audiences who seek depth, relevance, and emotional resonance. Beyond films, Zoya is also a co-founder of Tiger Baby Films, a production house known for championing fresh voices and bold narratives, further solidifying her role as a leader in India’s evolving creative landscape.
When you book Zoya Akhtar, you invite more than a filmmaker, you bring in a visionary, a mentor, and a thought leader whose insights on creativity, leadership, collaboration, and modern storytelling inspire every audience she speaks to. Her journey exemplifies persistence, imagination, and an unfaltering dedication to craft, making her an exceptional speaker for corporate events, creative summits, educational institutions, and leadership forums.
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Career Highlights and Achievements of Zoya Akhtar
Film Director & Screenwriter
Known for unique vision in films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Dil Dhadakne Do & Gully Boy
Television Creator
Created acclaimed TV series Made in Heaven showcasing modern Indian storytelling
Filmfare award Winner
Recipient of multiple Filmfare award recognizing her excellence in direction
IIFA award
Honored at the International Indian Film Academy award
Mentor & Speaker
Engages in public talks, panel discussions, and mentoring young filmmakers
Cultural Influence
Recognized for shaping modern Indian cinema & influencing contemporary filmmakers
Box Office Success
Films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara & Gully Boy achieved both critical acclaim & commercial success
Legacy in Cinema
Her stories, direction, and production have left a lasting mark on Indian cinema
Why Zoya Akhtar ?
With strong observational skills as her creative compass, Zoya teaches how to draw meaningful insights from the world around us. Book Zoya Akhtar through Engage4more to help your audience see ordinary life with extraordinary depth and purpose.
Zoya encourages audiences to overcome the fear of experimentation and trust their creative instincts. Hiring Zoya Akhtar gives your attendees a chance to learn from someone who has constantly challenged the norms of Indian cinema and redefined what it means to tell bold stories.
Zoya’s name draws a crowd. She is a celebrated and loved artist, whose presence can significantly boost the profile of your event. Book Zoya Akhtar for your next gathering if you're looking to add both star power and substance.
Zoya brings her unique perspective on contemporary society to the stage — from cultural nuances to storytelling techniques. Hire Zoya Akhtar to give your employees or attendees fresh frames of reference on creativity and culture.
Zoya believes in using cinema to reflect and represent the diverse voices in society. Book Zoya Akhtar for an inspiring session that blends Indian cinema with social relevance, encouraging your audience to see storytelling as a tool for change.
When you book Zoya Akhtar for your event, you're not just hiring a filmmaker — you're bringing in a powerhouse who believes in the transformative power of art. Her stories go beyond the screen, touching lives and sparking deep conversations about society, identity, and culture.
Snapshots of Zoya Akhtar
Showcasing some prominent images and videos of Zoya Akhtar including our previous events and other endeavors.
