Suriya-Jyotika’s daughter Diya makes directorial debut with ‘Leading Light’

**Suriya-Jyotika’s Daughter Diya Makes Directorial Debut with ‘Leading Light’**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | September 27, 2025, 1:38 PM*

Diya Suriya, the 17-year-old daughter of renowned actors Suriya and Jyotika, has made an impressive debut as a director with the docu-drama titled *Leading Light*. The film is currently being screened during its “Oscar qualifying run” at the Regency Theatre in California from September 26 to October 2.

**What is ‘Leading Light’ About?**

Produced by Suriya and Jyotika’s production house, 2D Entertainment, this 13-minute documentary sheds light on the untold stories of women gaffers — the technicians behind the scenes — in Bollywood. The film features personal interviews with three pioneering women who share their experiences working behind the camera in environments where they often find themselves as the only women on set.

**Highlights and Social Media Buzz**

2D Entertainment shared the poster of *Leading Light* on social media with a heartfelt caption:
“#LeadingLight The untold stories of Women behind the scenes. A docu-drama that discusses the experiences of Women Gaffers of Bollywood. Congratulations, our dearest #DiyaSuriya, on this exceptional feat and on shedding light on the contributions of these hidden gems.”

**Diya’s Education and Directorial Journey**

Diya recently graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) in May 2025. Just a few months after completing her education, she took on her directorial debut—a proud moment celebrated by her parents. Suriya and Jyotika expressed their joy on Instagram, writing:
“All we feel right now is. PROUD. May your choices reflect your hopes and not your fears. All the very best, Diya. Amma Appa’s blessings forever.”

**What’s Next for Suriya and Jyotika?**

While Diya embarks on her filmmaking journey, her parents continue to make waves in their careers. Suriya is awaiting the release of *Karuppu*, directed by RJ Balaji, and has another project, *Suriya 46* directed by Venky Atluri, lined up.

Jyotika was last seen in the Netflix series *Dabba Cartel*, which revolves around a group of women running a drug cartel disguised as a food delivery business. The series also stars acclaimed actors Shabana Azmi and Shalini Pandey.

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With *Leading Light*, Diya Suriya not only steps into the world of filmmaking but also highlights the significant yet often overlooked contributions of women behind the scenes in Bollywood cinema.
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