'The Second Wind' Shines at Cannes 2025 as India's Sole Women-Led Film

By: WE Staff | Thursday, 22 May 2025

• With The Second Wind, filmmaker Indira Baikerikar debuted at the 2025 Cannes International Film Festival 
• The movie is the only one from India that focuses on women at Cannes this year
• The Second Wind tells Indian women's true stories 

With The Second Wind, the only female-led Indian film to be screened at the esteemed Cannes International Film Festival this year, filmmaker Indira Baikerikar has made a strong debut. The film, which was conceptualized, directed, and produced by Indira Baikerikar, combines elements of fiction and biography by featuring real-life athletes who tell their own tales of overcoming adversity. 

The film, which was screened in Cannes' business section, received high marks from buyers in the US, Canada, and Asia for its cinematography, hybrid storytelling style, and emotionally stirring soundtrack. International distributors showed a great deal of interest in the film, which was described as restorative and healing. 

Because she feels that “filmmaker's first impression is so important”, Indira revealed that “The Second Wind” is her true passion project and very personal. She talked about how this film reflects her vision of independent Indian women who are strong, passionate, and able to balance their personal and professional lives, and she underlined the value of following one's truth rather than trends. Indira aimed to dispel stereotypes about Indian women by showcasing their resilience and determination, encouraging them to welcome change and discover their own "second wind." 

The filmmaker conveyed her appreciation for the film's organic journey to Cannes, acknowledging the assistance of her mentors and the Indian Motion Pictures Association. She is eager to keep learning and creating because she views this milestone as only the beginning. According to Baikerikar, The Second Wind earned its place on the international scene by demonstrating the potency of a straightforward yet poignant tale.