The Visionary Leadership of Ektaa Kapoor
In a watershed moment for women creators across the global entertainment landscape, prolific Indian film and television producer Ektaa Kapoor has carved her name on the pillars of celebrity this past week. Having spearheaded content production across television, film, and digital platforms in India for over three decades through her production house Balaji Telefilms, Ms. Kapoor’s seminal contributions were recognized on the world stage as she became the first Indian woman to win the prestigious International Emmy Directorate Award.
As glamorous celebrities draped in couture flock to the red carpet at the 51st International Emmy Awards in New York City on November 21st, 2022, Ms. Kapoor stepped into the spotlight in an embroidered black and gold sari by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla and Manish Malhotra jewelry, the epitome of Indian elegance meeting international glitz. Over the years, Ms. Kapoor has championed women-led narratives that capture the cadences of female desire and agency. From her breakthrough TV soap opera Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi which ran for 8 years, to hosting the Indian versions of iconic reality shows like Big Brother and Temptation Island, she has had an indelible influence over shaping pop culture and the national imagination.
Upon receiving the award, Ms. Kapoor said, “I dedicate this award to my mother who has seen the progression of her naive ambitious daughter through all her trials and tribulations.”
Back in Mumbai, glittering Bollywood stars lined up to celebrate the global glory of one of India’s most successful women entrepreneurs. Renowned chef Vikas Khanna hosted an intimate dinner highlighting his Michelin-inspired culinary prowess, in honor of Ms. Kapoor’s cross-continental achievement. “As she returns home all victorious, I wanted to celebrate Ektaa with my food,” shared Khanna.
Ms. Kapoor took to social media to share snippets of the dinnerparty, with a floral photowall bearing the phrase “Congratulations Ektaa! Winner of The 2021 International Emmys Directorate Award” setting a lavish backdrop. Dressed in a sequin and feather Dhruv Kapoor ensemble, the guest of honor and her guests were treated to a 10-course extravagant menu handcrafted by Chef Khanna including his signature dish – the carrot halwa tart infused with saffron and pista.
“Last night dinner with the master chef Vikas Khanna! From my heart to my stomach we were full with love!! Thank you for the warmth and hospitality !!! Hope to see you in NYC soon,” effused an elated Ektaa Kapoor. This intimate dinner was also attended by actor Vivek Oberoi, director Madhur Bhandarkar, and television icon Smriti Irani who have all collaborated extensively with Ms. Kapoor over the years.
As she raises a toast to signing ever more glorious feats in the global entertainment scene, Ektaa Kapoor’s International Emmy win signals the immense soft power India’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant cinematic tradition, and its women creative leaders can harness on the world map.
