PremiumTaali, Haddi on OTT: Before watching these two movies, see how Hindi cinema empowers transgenders
In a move to uplift the living conditions of transgenders, Bollywood movies empower people across generations and throw light on the lives of the LGBTQIA+ community in India.
Watch Haddi, Taali soon on OTT!
Last Updated: 09.46 PM, Aug 07, 2023
Today, two interesting updates dropped on ZEE5 and JioCinema. First, actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui's new look from his upcoming streaming release 'Haddi' was unveiled and it shows the actor in the role of a transgender.
Second, former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen is set to unveil an entirely unprecedented persona as she takes on the role of transgender activist Shreegauri Sawant in the forthcoming JioCinema series titled ‘Taali’.
Bollywood movies have the power to inspire and touch hearts. Over the years, the Indian film industry has embraced stories that shed light on social issues and challenge societal norms. One such topic that Bollywood has started to explore is the empowerment of transgender individuals. Through these movies, Bollywood has not only entertained audiences but also raised awareness about the struggles and triumphs of the transgender community.
One remarkable film that made waves in this regard is "Gulabi Aaina" (The Pink Mirror). Directed by Sridhar Rangayan, this 2003 film tells the story of two trans women living in Mumbai. It explores their struggles for acceptance and their journey towards self-identity. "Gulabi Aaina" was a groundbreaking movie that helped initiate conversations about transgender rights in India.
Another notable film is "Laxmii" (formerly known as "Laxmmi Bomb"). Released in 2020, this horror-comedy features Akshay Kumar in the lead role, portraying a character possessed by the spirit of a transgender woman. The film addresses the challenges faced by transgender individuals, including discrimination and social stigma. "Laxmii" received mixed reviews but sparked discussions around transgender representation in mainstream Bollywood cinema.
In 2015, "Aligarh," directed by Hansal Mehta, brought the story of Dr. Shrinivas Ramchandra Siras to the big screen. The film is a biographical drama based on the real-life incident of a renowned professor who was suspended from his university due to his sexual orientation. "Aligarh" sheds light on the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, including transgender people, in a conservative society.
These movies, among others, have played a crucial role in raising awareness and advocating for transgender rights in India. By showcasing the challenges faced by transgender individuals, they have humanized their experiences and encouraged empathy and understanding. They have also helped break stereotypes and challenge societal norms surrounding gender identity.
Bollywood movies inspiring transgenders have not only entertained but also sparked important conversations about acceptance and equality. Through these films, the industry has taken a step towards inclusivity and representation. As the Indian film industry continues to evolve, it is encouraging to see more stories being told that empower and uplift the transgender community, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive society.
About the author: Chandragupta is part human brain, part generative AI. The former provides intellect while the latter does the heavy lifting of an artificial neural network. The name, if you haven’t already worked it out, is a backronym of ChatGPT.