A group of visionary hijra in Delhi form a modelling agency to bring the traditional third gender into the 21st century
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY BFI
Could you tell us a bit about what inspired you to make this film?
This film began with an honest realisation that I didn’t know any trans Hijra person in Delhi or honestly know much about them, this is in stark contrast to my life in the UK. With the landmark judgement in India recognising a third gender inspired me to document their reality. Through the seven years it has been the characters’s display of strength and joy against all odds that kept me dedicated to sharing their reality.
What is the key message you hope LGBTQIA audiences take from your film?
The key message of hope would be that a warm courage to follow your dreams is key to realising them.
What are the main themes that your film explores?
The film explores the complex social and familial position trans Hijras find themselves in in Delhi, India. They are trapped between a space of religious acceptance and extreme marginalisation. The film also explores themes of familial support for the community and most importantly the desire to follow your dreams.
What is your favourite line or scene from your film?
Hard to say, I love all the scenes for a myriad of reasons but I love the scene of public auditions for the modelling agency that Rudrani held as it was a revelatory filming experience to witness one of the first interactions between the community and mainstream Indian society on an absolutely even footing. It was strongly revelatory to witness the layers of dissident perception and acceptance in Delhi.
How did you get into filmmaking and what has been your biggest challenge in the industry?
I got into filmmaking growing from training in photography and feeling a desire to make the material audio visual for more impact. There are so many challenges with independent filmmaking from solo responsibilities to finance. I don’t feel it’s the easiest work to be doing but very rewarding to go through it.
Why is LGBTQIA representation in film so important in 2024?
It’s so important, we need to hear and share LGBTQIA stories to grow in empathy, celebration and knowledge of this very large community to grow closer as a society.
Why are events like BFI Flare which centre LGBTQIA film so important?
Film is a powerful tool for education with empathy. Events like BFI Flare bring a wide international selection of strong and beautiful films and create a space for conversation, support and celebration making it such an crucially important event.
This year’s Flare is split into the themes Hearts, Bodies, and Minds. Do you have an LGBTQIA film which affected your heart, body, or mind?
One film that really stays with me is Pedro Almòdavar’s All About My Mother. It’s beautiful, personal and relational portrayal of the trans community delving beautifully into the deep questions of chosen families and communities.
INDIA’S 1st BEST TRANS MODEL AGENCY screens at the BFI FLARE FILM FESTIVAL on 22 March at BFI Southbank. Learn more here.
DIVA magazine celebrates 30 years in print in 2024. If you like what we do, then get behind LGBTQIA media and keep us going for another generation. Your support is invaluable.
