India's LGBTQ+ Stories: Filmmakers Spark Acceptance

Filmmakers Sridhar Rangayan and Saagar Gupta have significantly advanced queer narratives in India through their cinema and activism over the past 32 years. The Mumbai-based duo, partners in life and creativity, began their journey in 2002 due to a lack of representation, with their debut film 'Gulabi Aaina' becoming iconic as India's first film on drag queens, despite facing censorship and distribution hurdles.

Their subsequent works, including 'Yours Emotionally' and 'Evening Shadows,' evolved to emphasize authenticity and lived queer experiences, making art and advocacy inseparable. These films often explore family and acceptance, resonating deeply with audiences and, in the case of 'Evening Shadows,' inspiring the formation of Sweekar - The Rainbow Parents, India's first support group for parents of LGBTQ+ children.

Having received numerous international awards and accolades, including a National Award for 'Breaking Free' in 2016, the duo finds their greatest reward in the transformative impact of their films. Many viewers have used their work to come out to families, and parents have shared how the stories aided their acceptance of their children, highlighting cinema's role as a bridge within families.

Rangayan and Gupta express joy at the current growth of queer cinema, with younger filmmakers finding acceptance and OTT platforms opening new avenues. They remain committed to challenging norms, supporting queer talent, and pushing the boundaries of independent cinema through various platforms, continuing to carry the pride flag forward.