Director

Anjali Menon

Anjali Menon is one of Malayalam cinema's most celebrated contemporary directors, known for crafting intimate, character-driven stories that resonate across audiences. Since her debut in 2009, she's delivered critically acclaimed films like *Ustad Hotel*, *Bangalore Days*, and *Koode*—each showcasing her gift for blending humor, heart, and human complexity. Her work has earned recognition at international, national, and state-level film festivals, establishing her as a filmmaker who understands both the commercial and artistic pulse of Indian cinema. Beyond directing, Menon founded Little Films, a production company based in Mumbai and Kerala, proving she's equally invested in nurturing creative talent from behind the scenes. What sets Menon apart is her distinctive approach to storytelling—she has a talent for making the everyday feel cinematic, turning ordinary moments into emotionally resonant experiences. Her contribution to Malayalam cinema goes beyond her directorial work; she's a co-founder of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), an organization fighting for gender equality and better representation of women in the Malayalam film industry, making her a voice for systemic change. With her seat on MAMI's board and her recent projects, Menon continues to push boundaries, refusing to play it safe while remaining deeply connected to the regional cinema that made her name. She's the kind of filmmaker Bollywood could learn from—one who balances artistic integrity with accessibility.