Pride Month Special: 10 Indian Movies That Embrace The LGBTQ+ Community
In Pride Month Special know how Indian films have beautifully depicted the LGBTQ+ community's struggles, triumphs, and love stories in these 10 must-watch movies.
Pride Month Special: Celebrating Diversity on the Silver Screen- Indian Cinema’s Exploration of LGBTQ+ Themes
I firmly believe that art has the power to bring about change, though gradually yet undeniably. Indian cinema has been holding this power for a very long period of time and is continuing to do so. Indian cinema has evolved and embraced various social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights. Through compelling storytelling, talented actors, and thought-provoking narratives, these films have shed light on the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s know Indian cinema more and talk about the 10 remarkable Indian movies that have tackled LGBTQ+ themes with sensitivity and courage.
“Badhaai Do” (2022):
Directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni, “Badhaai Do” is a recent addition to the list of Indian movies that address LGBTQ+ themes. It revolves around the story of a gay man, played by Rajkummar Rao, and a lesbian woman, portrayed by Bhumi Pednekar, who form an unlikely bond while dealing with their respective societal challenges. The film beautifully captures their journey of self-acceptance, friendship, and love, challenging societal norms along the way.
2. “Fire” (1996):
Directed by Deepa Mehta, “Fire” is a pioneering film that explores lesbian relationships in the conservative Indian society. Set in a traditional household, the movie follows the lives of two sisters-in-law, Sita and Radha, who find solace and love in each other’s company. “Fire” challenges societal taboos and take you deep into the complexities of desire, repression, and liberation. Nandita Das and Shabana Azmi deliver powerful performances in this groundbreaking cinematic masterpiece.
Deepa Mehta admitted that her film Fire was loosely based on Ismat Chugtai’s short story Lihaaf that had two female Muslim gay protagonists. In her film, Mehta changed the characters to ‘Radha’ and ‘Sita’ pic.twitter.com/vTyVQLkIVr
— Gems of Bollywood बॉलीवुड के रत्न (@GemsOfBollywood) August 26, 2022
3. “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga” (2019):
Directed by Shelly Chopra Dhar, “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga” is a groundbreaking film that challenges heteronormative expectations. It tells the story of Sweety, a young woman who must find the courage to come out to her conservative Punjabi family. The movie breaks stereotypes and explores the importance of love, acceptance, and understanding. Anil Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, and Rajkummar Rao deliver excellent performances in this heartwarming and out of the box film.
Read more:- From India, Pakistan, And The US, Here Are 5 LGBTQ Activists Who Changed The World Forever
4. “Margarita with a Straw” (2014):
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Directed by Shonali Bose, “Margarita with a Straw” tells the inspiring story of Laila, a young woman with cerebral palsy who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. As Laila explores her sexuality and navigates her relationships, the film challenges societal norms and portrays the LGBTQ+ experience with compassion. Kalki Koechlin delivers a heartfelt performance in this moving coming-of-age drama.
5. “Kapoor & Sons” (2016):
Directed by Shakun Batra, “Kapoor & Sons” is a heartwarming family drama that subtly addresses themes of love, acceptance, and sexual identity. The film revolves around the Kapoor family as they navigate their own internal struggles while dealing with the revelation of a family secret. Filled with laughter, tears, and outstanding performances by Rishi Kapoor, Ratna Pathak Shah, Fawad Khan, and Alia Bhatt, “Kapoor & Sons” beautifully captures the complexities of familial relationships and LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Read more:- LGBTQ+: Things To Know Before Coming Out
6. “Sheer Qorma” (2021):
Directed by Faraz Arif Ansari, “Sheer Qorma” is a powerful exploration of LGBTQ+ identities, religion, and acceptance. The film revolves around two women, played by Shabana Azmi and Divya Dutta, who are in a same-sex relationship and face the challenges posed by societal and familial norms. Through its sensitive storytelling and stellar performances by Shabana Azmi, Divya Dutta and Swara Bhaskar, “Sheer Qorma” portrays the emotional journey of love, self-discovery, and finding one’s place in a conservative society.
7. “Badnam Basti” (1971):
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Directed by Prem Kapoor, “Badnam Basti” is considered one of the earliest Indian films to depict LGBTQ+ characters and their struggles. Though the film faced censorship issues and was banned, it remains a significant milestone in Indian cinema’s exploration of LGBTQ+ themes. “Badnam Basti” portrays the complexities and challenges faced by a homosexual man in a society that fails to accept his identity. Despite its controversial reception, hats off to the filmmakers who showed courage and dared to push boundaries.
8. “My Brother…Nikhil” (2005):
Directed by Onir, “My Brother…Nikhil” is a poignant drama set in the backdrop of the HIV/AIDS crisis in India during the 1980s. The film tells the story of Nikhil, a talented swimmer who is diagnosed with HIV and subsequently faces social ostracism. Through the portrayal of Nikhil’s relationship with his sister, the film delves into themes of love, acceptance, and resilience. With exceptional performances by Sanjay Suri and Juhi Chawla, “My Brother…Nikhil” highlights the power of familial support and challenges prejudice surrounding HIV/AIDS and homosexuality.
Read more:- Pride Month Special: Queer Start-Ups you Need to Follow
9. “Tamanna” (1997):
Even the token sassy jailbird for comic relief in Sholay was on Ramesh Sippy’s money that came from his father G P Sippy’s ‘dhanda’.
As an aside, Bhatt made Tamanna (1997), about Tikoo (Paresh Rawal), a transperson abandoned by their actress mother. pic.twitter.com/pcsDxc4are
— manish gaekwad (@manishgaekwad) June 16, 2022
Directed by Mahesh Bhatt, “Tamanna” is a thought-provoking film that explores gender identity and the struggle for acceptance. The story revolves around a eunuch named Tamanna, portrayed by Paresh Rawal, who faces prejudice and discrimination in society. With his powerful portrayal, Rawal brings depth and authenticity to the character, highlighting the challenges faced by the transgender community in India. “Tamanna” sheds light on the importance of embracing diversity and challenging societal norms.
10. “Aligarh” (2016):
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Directed by Hansal Mehta, “Aligarh” is a powerful biographical drama based on the real-life story of Dr. Shrinivas Ramchandra Siras, a professor at Aligarh Muslim University. The film follows his journey as he faces societal discrimination and persecution after his sexual orientation is exposed. With stellar performances by Manoj Bajpayee and Rajkummar Rao, “Aligarh” raises important questions about privacy, human rights, and acceptance.
Read more:- Celebrating Pride Month: Top 5 Hindi Web Series based on Same-Sex Relationships
These Ten Indian films provide a glimpse into the rich and evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ representation in Indian cinema. By addressing the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and exploring their stories with empathy and authenticity, these movies have contributed to a broader conversation about acceptance, equality, and human rights.
As we celebrate Pride Month, let us appreciate the power of cinema to educate, inspire, and foster understanding. These movies serve as a reminder that love knows no boundaries and that everyone deserves to live authentically and with dignity. By watching and supporting films that give voice to the LGBTQ+ community, we can take a step forward in creating a more inclusive and accepting society.
So, grab some popcorn, cosy up on your couch, and immerse yourself in these cinematic gems that highlight the beauty and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. Let us celebrate the diversity and richness of Indian cinema as we commemorate Pride Month and continue the journey towards a more inclusive world.
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