A Shift Towards Authentic LGBTQ+ Narratives
In recent times, Indian cinema and OTT platforms have made significant progress in authentically representing the LGBTQ+ community. Although there is still much work to be done, numerous actors from various generations have taken on queer roles, challenging stereotypes and societal expectations. Here’s a look at some notable actors who have made an impact by portraying LGBTQ+ characters on screen.
Akshay Oberoi – Inside Edge Season 3
Akshay Oberoi
In the third season of Inside Edge, Akshay Oberoi's character reveals his sexuality as gay, adding depth to his storyline. As a closeted athlete in a hyper-masculine setting, Oberoi skillfully navigated the intricacies of identity and inner turmoil, delivering a performance that infused emotional richness into a series known for its intense drama.
Rajkummar Rao – Badhaai Do
Rajkummar Rao
Rajkummar Rao captivated viewers with his nuanced portrayal of a gay police officer in Badhaai Do. The film delves into the concept of a lavender marriage, where a gay man and a lesbian woman marry to conform to societal norms. Rao's dedication to authentically depicting queer vulnerability was widely acclaimed, marking a significant advancement in Bollywood storytelling.
Gulshan Devaiah – Badhaai Do
Gulshan Devaiah
In Badhaai Do, Gulshan Devaiah portrays a potential romantic interest for Rao's character. His brief yet impactful performance showcased charm and sincerity, emphasizing the necessity of normalized queer representation in Bollywood.
Ayushmann Khurrana – Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan
Ayushmann Khurrana
Ayushmann Khurrana boldly embraced his role in Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, a romantic comedy focused on a gay couple. As Kartik, a confident and unapologetic gay man, Khurrana challenged conservative views, using his platform to elevate queer narratives and ignite crucial discussions among Indian audiences.
Lisa Mishra – The Royals
Lisa Mishra
Singer-turned-actress Lisa Mishra recently starred in The Royals, portraying a queer character navigating the complexities of high society and royal expectations. Her role signifies the expanding diversity of queer narratives in Indian OTT content.
Sonam Kapoor – Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga
Sonam Kapoor
Sonam Kapoor starred in Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga, one of the first mainstream Bollywood films to feature a lesbian lead. Her portrayal of a young woman grappling with her identity in a conservative family was both gentle and impactful, helping to normalize queer identities within family-centric narratives.
Vaani Kapoor – Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui
Vaani Kapoor
In Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui, Vaani Kapoor portrayed a transgender woman with grace and sensitivity. The film addressed themes of love, acceptance, and gender identity, and her performance was praised for its authenticity, highlighting the need for trans representation by trans actors.
Sharmila Tagore – Gulmohar
Madhuri Dixit
Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore made a remarkable return in Gulmohar, playing a queer matriarch who embraces her identity in her later years. Her subtle assertion of self, delivered with her characteristic elegance, powerfully conveyed that queer narratives are not confined to youth or rebellion.
Madhuri Dixit – Maja Ma
Madhuri Dixit surprised audiences with her role in Maja Ma, where she plays a middle-aged woman who comes out as a lesbian. In a culture that often overlooks the sexuality of older women, Dixit’s performance added depth to her character's journey, balancing societal expectations with personal acceptance.
