A member of the jury for the 21st Marrakech International Film Festival, Akhtar told MAP that this kind of event offers a platform that transcends borders, pointing out that it provides a platform where young directors can meet producers, distributors and other filmmakers, “which can lead to future professional opportunities”.

To appreciate a film, noted the director of Indian drama “Luck by chance”, it is essential to open one's heart and mind and allow oneself to be carried away by the story.

It is crucial for viewers to open their hearts and minds when “watching a film, without any specific expectations, to really let it create a bond”, the Emmy-nominated director pointed out.

Establishing a link with each film can awaken deep emotions within the audience, she continued, noting that the movies in the festival's official selection offer the chance to access stories from different regions and cultures.

In addition, Zoya Akhtar praised Marrakech's beauty, rich heritage and hospitality as “an ideal setting” where to enjoy this cinematic experience.

"Every screening is an invitation to travel, to discover new perspectives, to enjoy cinematic experiences that take us out of our comfort zone,” the director of ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ added. “As a member of the jury, I leave with the desire to share what I've discovered here, to encourage others to heed these new talents who tell their stories with such sincerity and passion,” she said.

Zoya Akhtar's work has earned her an Emmy nomination, a NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film, a selection at the Cannes Film Festival and the Berlinale, as well as being chosen to represent India in the pre-selection for the Oscars.

With her company Tiger Baby Films, she produced the critically acclaimed series Made in Heaven (2019), the docu-series Angry Young Men (2024) and the Berlinale Series Award-nominated series Dahaad (2023), all of which received international acclaim.