Mast Mahila Mandali: A Documentary Born from Five Smartphones and Six Months of Saturday Workshops

Ten working-class women from Mumbai co-directed a 70-minute documentary titled "Mast Mahila Mandali" (Cool Ladies Club). The film premiered at the Regal theater in Mumbai in spring 2025.

From Sanitation Short to Feature-Length Portrait

The project was initiated by Supriya Jan of CORO India, a nonprofit focusing on leadership skills for marginalized women. Filmmaker Shilpi Gulati taught the women basic filmmaking techniques, including lighting and composition, over six months of Saturday workshops. The women used five smartphones and worked in pairs.

What began as a planned five-minute film on sanitation expanded into a feature-length documentary depicting the participants' lives as domestic workers, community health workers, toilet operators, and home caregivers.

A Dance Scene, a Husband’s Objection, and a Family’s Support

Among the co-directors, Rehana Shaikh, a home caregiver, included a dance scene in her home. Sheetal Navle captured the scene. Shaikh stated that her husband initially objected to her appearing on screen, but she negotiated by saying she would only work behind the camera. The women encouraged her to keep the scene. At the premiere, her family attended and expressed support.

Payment, Copyright, and Festival Plans

The co-directors received $262 each for their work. Joint copyright of the film is held with Gulati and CORO India. Future distribution and ticket sales revenue will be shared.

Additional community screenings have occurred, and the documentary is scheduled for submission to film festivals in summer 2025.