Women’s Day 2025 Special: Who was India’s first woman director? Know everything about her

Fatma Begum, born in 1892 into an Urdu-speaking Muslim family in India, holds the title of India’s first female film director. A pioneering figure in a male-dominated industry, her career not only defied gender norms but also helped shape the future of Indian cinema. Her resilience, creativity, and vision paved the way for women in filmmaking during a time when they were often marginalized.

Early life and personal life

Fatma Begum developed a passion for the arts early in life, performing in Urdu theatre as a youth. Though rumors circulated that she was married to Nawab Sidi Ibrahim Muhammad Yakut Khan III, a prominent figure in India’s royal circles, no legal records of their marriage exist. None of her daughters were recognized as his, adding an air of mystery to her personal life. Despite societal expectations that acting was an unsuitable career for women, Fatma pursued her passion for theater and filmmaking with determination, challenging conventional gender roles.

Beginning of her film career

Fatma Begum made her film debut in 1922 at the age of 30 in the silent film Veer Abhimanyu (The Brave Abhimanyu), directed by Ardeshir Irani. In a time when the Indian film industry was predominantly male, with female roles often portrayed by men, Fatma boldly carved out her space. She went on to star in films such as Sati Sardaba, Prithi Vallabh, Kala Nag (Black Cobra), and Gul-e-Bakavali (A Nocturnal Flower) in 1924, solidifying her position in the industry.

Pioneering filmmaker and entrepreneur

In 1926, Fatma Begum became the first woman in India to establish her own production company, Fatima Films, which was later renamed Victoria-Fatma Films in 1928. As a producer, screenwriter, and actress, she created a platform for women’s voices in cinema. Her directorial debut, Bulbul-e-Paristan (Nightingale of Fantasyland), a fantasy film, was a major success but unfortunately no prints of it have survived. Despite this, it sparked a wave of fantasy films in Indian cinema.

Contributions and legacy

Fatma’s contributions to Indian cinema were groundbreaking. She created leading roles for women, who were seldom in the spotlight at the time. Notable films she directed include Goddess of Love (1927) and Shakuntala (1929). Her studio, however, faced legal troubles in 1929, marking the end of its journey. Though many of her films have been lost, her legacy as a trailblazer for women filmmakers endures. Her daughter, Zubeida, went on to star in India’s first talking film, Alam Ara (1931), continuing Fatma’s trailblazing legacy.

Fatma Begum passed away in 1983 at the age of 91, leaving a lasting mark on Indian cinema and inspiring future generations of women filmmakers.