Women in Film (WIF) India has launched a new Exhibition programme, beginning with special screenings of the feature film Hamlet in Mumbai. The screenings are organized in partnership with Soho House, marking the start of a series that celebrates women in cinema.
Hamlet film reimagines Shakespeare with Riz Ahmed and Sheeba Chaddha
The film, directed by Aneil Karia, reimagines William Shakespeare's classic tragedy. It stars Riz Ahmed in the lead role alongside Indian actor Sheeba Chaddha. This project brings director Aneil Karia and actor Riz Ahmed back together after their earlier work on the short film The Long Goodbye.
According to Bollywood Hungama, the screenings are part of WIF India's new initiative to showcase meaningful cinema. The Exhibition programme appears designed to highlight films that align with the organisation's mission of supporting and celebrating women in the film industry.
Riz Ahmed on bringing Hamlet to Indian audiences
Speaking about bringing the film to India, Riz Ahmed expressed his excitement about sharing the work with audiences in the country. He noted that Indian adaptations of Shakespeare's plays have long inspired him.
"It means the world to share this with audiences in India. Adaptations like Omkara, Maqbool, and Haider have inspired me for a long time. We are excited to share our take on this timeless classic." — Riz Ahmed via Bollywood Hungama
WIF India announced the special screening as part of its Exhibition Programme, describing it as a celebration of the incredible work being done in cinema. The organisation shared the announcement on its social media channels, inviting audiences to the Mumbai screenings.
What the Exhibition programme means for WIF India
The launch of the Exhibition programme represents a new chapter for Women in Film India. By starting with Hamlet, the organisation is pairing a globally recognised story with Indian talent, creating a bridge between international cinema and Indian audiences.
According to Women in Film India on Instagram, the organisation is "thrilled to announce a very special screening" as part of the programme. The film's selection signals the kind of thoughtful, artistically driven work the programme aims to feature.
The choice of Hamlet also highlights the growing presence of Indian actors in international productions. Sheeba Chaddha's role in the film brings an Indian perspective to one of the most studied characters in English literature, adding a fresh layer to the story.
Our Take: A smart start for a meaningful programme
In our view, WIF India's decision to launch its Exhibition programme with Hamlet is a strong move. The film brings together international star power and Indian acting talent, which gives it broad appeal. More importantly, it sets a clear tone for what the programme wants to achieve — showcasing films that matter, not just films that entertain.
Riz Ahmed's comments about Indian adaptations like Omkara and Maqbool show a genuine respect for how Indian cinema has handled Shakespeare. That respect appears mutual, with WIF India choosing this film to open its new initiative.
For audiences in Mumbai, this is a chance to see a fresh take on a timeless story. For the film industry, it is another sign that collaborations between international and Indian talent are becoming more common. The Exhibition programme gives these collaborations a dedicated platform, and that is worth watching.
To put it plainly, this launch is about more than one film. It is about creating a space where cinema that pushes boundaries can find its audience. Starting with Hamlet is a confident first step.
[Sources & References] - Bollywood Hungama - Women in Film India on Instagram - Women in Film India on Instagram (Reel)