Award-Winning Filmmaker Sridhar Rangayan Advocates for Authentic LGBTQIA+ Cinema in India
For over two decades, Sridhar Rangayan, an acclaimed Indian filmmaker, writer, and activist, has dedicated his career to using cinema as a powerful tool for social advocacy and artistic expression. His work consistently centers on authentic portrayals of India's LGBTQ+ community, challenging stereotypes and fostering greater understanding.
Harnessing Cinema for Advocacy and Authentic Storytelling
Sridhar Rangayan emphasizes the critical importance of producing the right kind of cinema that genuinely addresses LGBTQIA+ issues. He recently screened his latest film, Kuch Sapney Apne, in Ahmedabad, where it received an overwhelming response. This film serves as a sequel to his 2018 work, Evening Shadows, continuing the narrative of a gay couple and their family dynamics.
"It's a semi-autobiographical film," Sridhar explains. "The core message is that every relationship, whether straight or queer, is inherently complicated. We've screened this film at 32 international festivals and won 12 awards. After a brief release in February 2025, we're now taking it to various cities. The Ahmedabad screening was houseful, with audiences deeply moved, even to tears."
Challenging Mainstream Portrayals and Telling Community Stories
Throughout his 25-year career, Sridhar has focused on telling stories from within the LGBTQ+ community. He criticizes mainstream cinema for its often myopic and stereotypical depictions, where gay men are frequently portrayed as transgender or effeminate.
"In Kuch Sapney Apne, the main leads are normal-looking boys navigating a relationship, complete with breakups and family issues—just like any other couple," he notes. "We aim to portray a reality that mainstream filmmakers have largely ignored. I want to tell these stories because they matter, and I've been doing so in various forms for decades, covering transgender experiences, gay lives, and more."
Evolving Acceptance and the Shift in Audience Perception
Sridhar, known for critically acclaimed films like 68 Pages and Breaking Free, observes a positive shift in how queer films are received. He recalls earlier challenges, such as audiences fearing recognition at screenings, often disguising themselves with glasses and hats.
"Times have changed," he asserts. "People are more aware and accepting now, especially in metro cities. The enthusiastic response in Ahmedabad has encouraged us to screen the film more widely. I believe this is a film meant for the big screen, and its reception shows growing openness."
The Need for Sensitive Queer Representation in Bollywood and Beyond
Discussing queer representation in Bollywood, Sridhar points to progress since the 2018 Supreme Court verdict decriminalizing homosexuality. Films like Evening Shadows, Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, and Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga have led the way, though he notes a recent decline in such mainstream productions.
"While mainstream cinema has become more positive and respectful in portraying LGBTQ+ characters, the quantity has reduced," he says. "Conversely, web series often include queer characters merely to tick a box, without integrating them into meaningful narratives. For true representation, these characters must be written with sensitivity and given well-developed roles."
He adds that involvement from big actors, directors, and producers could further boost awareness, which is already growing at a promising pace.
Making LGBTQ+ Films Mainstream with Happy Endings
To make Kuch Sapney Apne more accessible, Sridhar incorporated three songs, including one composed and sung by Vishal Bhardwaj and Rekha Bhardwaj, and another by Shaan. This involvement of eminent singers marks a significant milestone for the project.
"Many Indian LGBTQ films tend to have sad endings," Sridhar observes. "I focus on stories that also have happy conclusions. My latest project is a happy, mainstream gay film that I wanted to share with the world, showcasing the full spectrum of our experiences."
Through his persistent efforts, Sridhar Rangayan continues to pave the way for more inclusive and authentic storytelling in Indian cinema, advocating for a future where LGBTQ+ narratives are told with the depth and respect they deserve.
