Breakthrough’s New Film, From Fields to Flight, Takes Off, Championing Women’s Financial Independence

Breakthrough, an organisation working to shift social norms and make gender-based violence unacceptable, has unveiled its latest short film, From Fields to Flight. The 15-min film directed by Ipshita Bhattacharyya, tells the inspiring story of Babita, a young woman from rural Uttar Pradesh who defies entrenched gender norms to become a trained drone pilot. Her journey from navigating societal restrictions to building financial independence, emerges as a powerful story of resilience and aspiration.

“Women across the world face many invisible challenges to find their rightful place in society as well as within their own homes. I feel it is important to give their voices that space in our films. And being able to bring Babita’s story to the world gives me immense joy. I hope the film finds an audience who is willing to listen, support and take action towards creating a gender equal society." says Ipshita Bhattacharyya, Director.

Additionally, Babita protagonist & drone pilot added “I never imagined I would travel alone, learn something like drone technology, and earn on my own. This film is not just my story, but also the story of many girls like me who just need a chance and some support to move forward.”

Created as part of the Solution Storytelling Grant by the Skoll Foundation and Video Consortium, the film goes beyond representation to highlight real pathways for change, particularly for young women in India’s hinterlands.

“When Babita walks a different path, she brings to life new pathways for so many like her. Those around her wake upto possibilities and this realises change in the world. From Fields to Flight is a portrayal of this very change that Breakthrough is deeply committed to. It’s what inspires us to get to work every single day,” shares Pooja Pande, Director, Media & Digital at Breakthrough.

The Bengaluru screening brought together representatives from the media, social impact sector, and funding partners and was unveiled by the film’s director,

The event featured an interactive session between the protagonist Babita, the film’s Director, Ipshita Bhattacharya along with Pooja Pande, Director – Media & Digital at Breakthrough further deepening the dialogue around gender, skilling, and financial inclusion.