Published Paper Details:

This research paper examines the transformative contributions of women technicians in Tamil cinema between the 2010s and 2020s, a period marked by significant evolution in gender representation behind the camera. Historically dominated by male professionals, the technical arena of Tamil cinema has witnessed gradual but impactful integration of women professionals across various departments, including cinematography, editing, production design, sound engineering, and visual effects. Through qualitative analysis of industry reports, interviews, and film credits, this study identifies key trends, breakthrough artists, and persistent challenges. The findings reveal that women technicians have not only achieved individual recognition in previously male-dominated fields but have also fostered collective advocacy through professional networks like the Indian Women Cinematographers Collective. Despite systemic barriers including gender bias in equipment-handling roles and logistical challenges concerning long working hours, women technicians have demonstrated remarkable resilience and creativity, increasingly occupying leadership positions in major productions. Their presence has enriched Tamil cinema's visual storytelling and narrative diversity, bringing fresh perspectives to character development and aesthetic approaches. This paper concludes with recommendations for industry stakeholders to implement structural reforms that can accelerate gender parity, ensuring that the technical landscape of Tamil cinema becomes more inclusive and representative of the society it portrays