Sign In

Sapna Bhavnani

Director - Producer - Shaping Perspectives by Shifting the Gaze.

Professional Background

Sapna Bhavnani is an acclaimed entrepreneur and multifaceted artist, widely recognized for her innovative contributions to the Indian arts and culture landscape. As the founder of the pioneering hair salon Mad O Wot, which opened its doors 16 years ago in Bombay, she has not only transformed the salon industry in India but also redefined beauty standards for the youth. Her bold vision and creativity have made significant impacts in various fields, showcasing her versatility as a writer, actor, producer, and director.

Her commitment to empowering young women is evident through her self-help book, "Style O Wot", aimed at teenage girls. Beyond literature, Sapna has made waves in theater as an actress in the acclaimed play NIRBHAYA, which addresses sexual and gender-based violence. This production has earned prestigious accolades, including the Amnesty Freedom of Expression Award and the Angel Herald Award, further solidifying her role as a powerful voice for social change.

In 2019, Sapna made her mark in the film industry with the release of her first feature-length documentary, Sindhustan, which centers on the poignant story of the largest migration of a culture in history, told through the tattoos on her body. This documentary has captivated audiences worldwide, winning an impressive nine Feature Documentary Awards and screening at 21 film festivals. Currently, Sindhustan is available for streaming on Movie Saints, showcasing Sapna's commitment to bringing important narratives to the forefront.

Sapna's influence extends into the realm of film production. In July 2020, she founded Wench Films, aiming to elevate and promote Indian talent on a global scale. Her endeavors continue with her latest projects, including the post-production of her upcoming feature, "My Dog IS Sick," as well as authoring a new book titled "Chapter One" for Harper Collins.

Education and Achievements

Sapna Bhavnani embarked on her academic journey at Barat College, where she pursued a Bachelor's degree with a double major in Marketing and Communications. This educational background has equipped her with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of running successful businesses and creating impactful narratives across various forms of media.

Throughout her career, she has held numerous leadership positions, including as the Chief Wench Founder at the Wench Film Festival, establishing a platform that champions diverse voices in cinema. Previously, she has also taken on roles as a writer, producer, and director at Wench Films and played an integral part in the production of Sindhustan, ensuring that powerful stories are told and experienced by broader audiences.

In addition to her significant projects, Sapna is the founder of PurrOm, where she further smoothed her entrepreneurial expertise and creative instincts. Her work has consistently resonated with audiences and critics alike, marking her as a change-maker in the realms of social activism and the arts.

Achievements

  1. Mad O Wot: Founder of a revolutionary hair salon, reshaping the beauty industry in India.

  2. NIRBHAYA: Actor in a groundbreaking play, which won multiple awards for raising awareness about critical social issues.

  3. Sindhustan: Producer and Director of an award-winning documentary that has won nine Feature Documentary Awards and garnered international attention.

  4. Wench Films: Launched a production company focused on empowering diverse talent from India.

  5. Style O Wot: Authored a self-help book targeted at empowering teenage girls, enhancing their self-image and confidence.

  6. My Dog IS Sick: Currently in post-production, showcasing her continuous drive to bring unique stories to the screen.

  7. Chapter One: Writing a book for Harper Collins, further expanding her influence as a storyteller.

Through her diverse work, Sapna Bhavnani embodies the essence of an artist who is not afraid to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Her profound contributions to the fields of art, beauty, and social activism reflect her dedication to making a lasting impact on society. With each endeavor, she continues to inspire a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs, truly living up to her reputation as a visionary and change-maker.

Related Questions

How did Sapna Bhavnani's early career as a hair stylist shape her later ventures into filmmaking and writing?
What inspired Sapna Bhavnani to create her documentary film Sindhustan, and what challenges did she face during its production?
In what ways does Sapna Bhavnani aim to empower young women through her work in the fashion and film industries?
How does Sapna Bhavnani’s educational background in Marketing and Communications influence her business and artistic decisions?
What impact has Sapna Bhavnani's work in the NIRBHAYA play had on discussions around gender-based violence in India?
Sapna Bhavnani
Add to my network

Location

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India