From shadows to spotlight: It is time to shift the LGBTQ narratives in Indian media.
Indian media is a powerful storyteller, reflecting the society’s traditions and norms in more ways than one. Recently, this entertainment industry has also become an agent of change and perception by challenging stereotypes and traditions. Cinema industries across the country have significantly evolved with their narratives on women-led movies and LGBTQ representation.
Despite the change in narratives and the Supreme Court’s ruling in 2018, media houses are loaded with challenges, making us question ourselves: how far have we come, and what more needs to be done?
LGBTQ representation back then: Misrepresentation and Stereotypes
Earlier, the LGBTQ community’s on-screen representation was through a narrow lens, subjecting to more stereotypes than awareness. Even if LGBTQ characters had separate narratives, they were either presented as eccentric villains or removed during the edit phase. For instance, the effeminate male character or ambiguous sexualities (those who are uncertain about their gender) are often positioned for humour or objects of mockery. While this positioning might not be intentional, it is a damaging perception of the (LGBTQ) community’s identity.
The Turning Point with Stories of Change
The early 2000s witnessed a slow but steady shift in LGBTQ narratives. Films like My Brother Nikhil broke many stereotypes with its intense storytelling and paved the way for other directors and narratives. While the concept was new at that era, it still resonated with the audience and sparked conversations about LGBTQ individuals.
Bollywood, in the recent times, has adopted a different approach in their narratives with films like Kapoor & Sons, Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui, and Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan. These films addressed the LGBTQ concept with empathy, while moving away from caricatured portrayals. However, this transition was not easy – writers and directors are navigating the fine line between advocacy and mainstream cinema, fully aware of the risk.
Digital platforms and OTT streaming services have offered creators greater freedom to explore characters and complex themes; series like Made in Heaven and The Married Woman highlight other aspects of LGBTQ individuals, like their interests, hobbies, and relationships. These series have brought out the nuances of “coming out of the closet” while initiating discussions about culture and acceptance.
From Margins to Mainstream – the shift in narratives
For creators to bring out more about LGBTQ characters, they need to wade through a complex landscape of cultural and societal sensitivities. Even though there is progress, taboos around LGBTQ individuals, their interests and issues persist. Movies and series like Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga and Four More Shots Please! have bolder and nuanced representation of LGBTQ characters with authentic story arcs.
Indian audiences may not accept the nuances of LGBTQ characters and this is where media houses need to step in – rather than pertaining to the stereotypical narratives, creators should focus on authentic representations. This shift in approach will help the audience (and the society at large) understand and empathize with the LGBTQ community. The shift from marginalization to mainstream cinema itself is a reflection of societal change for progress but the road to destination is far from perfect. While challenges like risk of backlash persist, the progress so far is a crucial step towards an inclusive storytelling landscape in Indian media
