Fire
Queering the Narrative: The Evolution of LGBTQ+ Themes in Hindi Cinema
Despite the progress made, Hindi cinema still faces challenges in accurately representing the diversity of LGBTQ+ experiences. Critiques have been raised regarding the tendency to prioritize cisgender, upper-class narratives.
By Taarina Therese Chandiramani
‘Fire’ and Sexuality
Fire served as a seminal piece of media in my life for that reason, not only because of its queer themes and normalisation of LGBTQ+ relationships but because of how it normalises the pursuit of pleasure as a fundamental part of us, and not something we should be ashamed of.
By Katie Yenna
August 10, 2023
Let’s Talk About 377 | Popular Culture is Changing How India Views Homosexuality
When Deepa Mehta’s Fire came out in 1996, violent protests roiled India over the depiction of romance between two female leads. There is no homosexuality in India, demonstrators declared while burning effigies in the Capital. In contrast, when Margarita With A Straw came out in 2014, it received accolades for its sensitive portrayal of queer desire in a woman with disability.
By Curated Content
Issue In Focus: Dealing With HIV—Has India Missed the Bus?
HIV remains exceptional in that it carries the seemingly immutable burden of being synonymous with immoral behaviour. Open and safe…
By Mona Mishra
December 1, 2015