Number of women directors, producers in India not enough: Sophie

Singer-actress Sophie Choudry says that women are getting better opportunities now and there are numerous women directors, producers and media professionals, but still their number is not sufficient.

"I think today we read more negative things in the newspapers like women are unsafe in our country, don't have equal rights etc. Though to some extent it is true, at the same time, you should see the changes also. Women are getting the better opportunities than earlier.

"We see them in every field today. We have so many incredible women directors, producers and in any aspect of media. This is a very positive thing but if we compare it to other countries, it's not enough. So I feel education is must for each and every woman. It is necessary to live your life with dignity and respect," Sophie said at a panel discussion about women's independence and empowerment organized by Zoya Jewels.

While there are women producers like Ekta Kapoor, there are also star wives like Gauri Khan or Twinkle Khanna in the credits as presenters or producers. While choreographer-turned-director Farah Khan is the only female director who has entered the 100-crore club and Zoya Akhtar is coming somewhere close, others like Aparna Sen, Mira Nair, Deepa Mehta, Meghna Gulzar are considered 'niche' directors, she said.

Sophie, who was born and brought up in England and has been in India for the last 12 years, said she has witnessed a big change regarding women empowerment, especially in any big city.

"Girls are becoming more independent and wish to achieve whatever they want in their life. Maybe in small cities the changes are not that visible, but still a good and big transformation is coming gradually," she said.

On the professional front, Sophie is excited for her upcoming music video and said: "Let's not reveal much about it. Possibly I am going to sing in the video. The shooting will be starting soon and I canat wait for all to watch it."

Sophie who is known for her "Ek Pardesi Mera Dil Le Gaya" and "Mera Babu Chail Chabila" numbers was seen as a contestant on the dance reality show "Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 7".