Director Indrajit Nattoji Says: “Madam Driver Is A Quiet Act Of Resistance Against Deep-rooted Patriarchy”

Madam Driver, a powerful new featurette by Aafat-e-Ishq director Indrajit Nattoji and starring acclaimed actress Kitu Gidwani, is set to screen at the prestigious New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) 2025. The film will be showcased as part of a stellar lineup of Indian independent cinema that includes works featuring cinematic stalwarts such as Anupam Kher, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and Manoj Bajpayee.

Best known for her iconic roles in Swabhimaan, Shaktimaan, and the film Fashion, Kitu Gidwani leads the cast in this poignant story about personal transformation and quiet defiance. Madam Driver also stars Ankit Siwach-recognized for his work in Manmohini, Beyhadh 2, and the upcoming 120 Bahadur-alongside Bhavna Pani (Tezz). Siwach will be representing the film at the NYIFF screening in New York.

Speaking about the film's selection at NYIFF, Indrajit Nattoji said:

"Madam Driver is more than just a story about learning to drive-it's a quiet act of resistance against the deep-rooted patriarchal narratives that continue to define gender roles in much of our society. It also reflects a version of India that I grew up in-one where people connect as humans first, beyond the boundaries of religion, caste, or class. I'm honoured to present this film at NYIFF 2025, alongside some of India's most compelling independent cinema. And I'm proud that Ankit Siwach, whose nuanced performance brings so much heart to the film, will be representing it at the festival. Sharing Madam Driver with a global audience is a reminder that stories of everyday courage can resonate far beyond borders."

Set in small-town Gujarat, Madam Driver follows Devika Dixit, a 55-year-old widow who decides to learn how to drive-challenging gender norms, confronting grief, and forging unexpected human connections along the way. The film explores themes of empowerment, resilience, and the joy of reinventing oneself at any age. It is part of a larger anthology of stories developed by Nattoji that spotlight women's lives in small-town and urban India.

Produced by I.N.K. Pictures LLP in collaboration with GreyOwl Barnstorm Pvt Ltd, and co-produced by Kinetigra Medias & Productions Pvt Ltd, Madam Driver is a moving portrait of identity, healing, and personal freedom-told through the lens of everyday acts of quiet resistance.

Madam Driver will be Screening at NYIFF on June 22, 2025.