New Delhi: Indian cinema has gone through a transformative journey when it comes to LGBTQ representation. While the portrayal of LGBTQ characters was historically limited to stereotypes, there has been a notable shift towards more authentic and inclusive storytelling in recent years. Indian filmmakers have embraced diverse narratives, exploring the complexities of LGBTQ experiences and shedding light on important social issues. Movies like “Aligarh,” and “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga” have made significant contributions in challenging societal norms and promoting acceptance. The growing visibility of LGBTQ characters in Indian cinema reflects a broader societal change and opens avenues for dialogue, empathy, and equality.
Badhaai Do
This 2022 comedy-drama film, directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni, delves into the concept of a lavender marriage, exploring LGBTQ+ love and the challenges faced in a society driven by societal norms. The film fearlessly presents the story of Shardul Thakur (Rajkummar Rao), a gay policeman, and Sumi (Bhumi Pednekar), a lesbian physical education teacher, who enter into a marriage of convenience. Despite societal pressures, they find fulfillment and eventually connect with their true soulmates. The film also focuses on their families’ journey of acceptance and support. You can watch this film on Netflix.
Aligarh
In the film “Aligarh” directed by Hansal Mehta, the story revolves around a professor named Shrinivas Ramchandra Siras (portrayed by Manoj Bajpayee) who faces suspension after a sting operation exposes his same-sex relationship. He is stigmatized, loses his job, and faces tremendous challenges. A journalist named Deepu Sebastian (played by Rajkummar Rao) takes up his case which leads to a courtroom battle and a ray of hope. The film has received international recognition for its powerful storytelling.
Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan
The film is directed by Hitesh Kewalya, tells the story of Aman Tripathi (Jitendra Kumar) and Kartik Singh (Ayushmann Khurrana), a gay couple facing obstacles in a conservative society where discussing same-sex love is considered inappropriate. Despite challenges, their love triumphs in the end, proving that true love cannot be denied. The movie addresses the serious issue of homophobia with a mix of humor and bravery. It also stars Gajraj Rao and Neena Gupta in important roles. The movie is available on Amazon Prime Video.
Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To Aisa Laga
‘Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To Aisa Laga’ is a significant film that explores a same-sex love story. Directed by Shelly Chopra Dhar, the movie features Sonam Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, and Rajkummar Rao. Sweety Chaudhary, a happy and innocent girl from a traditional Punjabi family, dreams of getting married. However, as she grows up, she realizes that she doesn’t desire a husband. The film portrays the challenges Sweety faces as her family and society reject her homosexuality. In the end, Sweety is reunited with her love, Kuhu. Watch this classic movie on Netflix.
Kapoor and Sons
“Kapoor and Sons” is a movie that centers around a dysfunctional family. The story revolves around two brothers, Rahul Kapoor (Fawad Khan) and Arjun Kapoor (Sidharth Malhotra), who have a strained relationship and frequently argue over trivial matters. The family dynamics take a turn for the worse when their mother, Sunita Kapoor (Rathna Pathak Shah), discovers intimate photographs of Rahul and his boyfriend. Rahul’s sexuality becomes a crucial part of the family’s drama, making the film compelling to watch. You can catch this on Amazon Prime Video.
Margarita With A Straw
The movie ‘Margarita With A Straw’ tackles important topics like homosexuality and disability, which often present challenges for individuals. Kalki Koechlin delivers a remarkable performance as Laila, a character with cerebral palsy who is exploring her sexuality and realizes she is a lesbian. The film sheds light on the discrimination Laila faces in society because of her disability and sexual orientation.
