Queering Bollywood: The Influence of Media on South Asian LGBTQ+ Mental Health
I grew up watching White & straight dominated media, living in a sheltered Indian community in the Midwest. I didn’t know what the LGBTQ+ community was until late middle school, when I started discovering more about myself, too. The lack of representation of people like me in the media led me to having an extended lack of accurate knowledge about my culture, and, to me, more importantly, a lack of belonging in the community and larger society that I grew up in, impacting my mental health greatly.
The influence of media on South Asian LGBTQ+ mental health refers to the impact that various forms of media, such as television, film, online content, and social media, have on the psychological well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals in the South Asian context. It involves examining how media representations, narratives, and stereotypes shape the perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as how these representations can contribute to mental health challenges and disparities.
To me, seeing people like myself in the media showed me that we were important and mattered within the larger context of society. Not having that growing up led me to believe that only people within my culture wanted to talk to me, learn more about me, and explore each other more. Media was a form of empowerment that I wanted so badly but only received little nuggets of.
LGBTQ+ Representation in Bollywood: A Historical Overview
I didn’t grow up watching only Bollywood as I lived in America, but one common theme I recognized as I consumed more and more of Bollywood media was that all cultures lack some form of representation- whether it be racially-based, sexual orientation, or gender- we all are still growing and improving our diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
The representation of LGBTQ+ characters in Bollywood films has evolved over the years, albeit slowly. In the early decades of Indian cinema, homosexuality was largely ignored or portrayed through comedic stereotypes. LGBTQ+ characters were often depicted as effeminate, flamboyant, or objects of ridicule, reinforcing negative stereotypes and perpetuating homophobia.
However, there have been notable exceptions. One of the earliest films to address same-sex love was “Fire” (1996), directed by Deepa Mehta. The film explored a lesbian relationship and sparked controversy and debate in India. It was followed by films like “My Brother… Nikhil” (2005) and “Dostana” (2008), which depicted gay characters and their struggles.
In recent years, there has been a gradual shift towards more nuanced and sensitive portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters in Bollywood. Films like “Aligarh” (2016) and “Kapoor & Sons” (2016) addressed same-sex relationships with greater empathy and authenticity. “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga” (2019) focused on a lesbian protagonist and her journey of self-acceptance.
Despite these positive developments, LGBTQ+ representation in Bollywood still faces challenges such as limited screen time, tokenism, and the absence of transgender and non-binary characters. For decades, Bollywood films have perpetuated stereotypes regarding LGBTQ+ individuals, often portraying them as caricatures or comic relief. These portrayals have reinforced negative stereotypes and contributed to societal stigma. Furthermore, Homophobia and societal taboos have hindered LGBTQ+ representation in Bollywood. The fear of backlash, conservative cultural attitudes, and the lack of acceptance have limited the exploration of diverse narratives.
However, in recent years, there has been a gradual shift towards more sensitive portrayals and nuanced storytelling. Filmmakers are attempting to challenge stereotypes and create more authentic representations of LGBTQ+ individuals. This progress reflects changing societal attitudes and an increasing demand for inclusive narratives.
Regarding therapy and mental health, there has been a historical stigma surrounding seeking therapy and addressing mental health issues in India. This stigma is not limited to the LGBTQ+ community but extends to society as a whole. Mental health concerns have often been dismissed or ignored, contributing to the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
Media Portrayals and Mental Health: The Power of Positive Representation
Media plays a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes and perceptions. Positive and accurate representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in media can help increase visibility, promote understanding, and challenge stereotypes. By discussing the influence of media, we can advocate for more inclusive and authentic portrayals of South Asian LGBTQ+ individuals, which can foster a sense of belonging and validation, and positively impact their mental health.
Media representations can also often reinforce negative stereotypes and perpetuate stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ individuals. This can lead to internalized homophobia, transphobia, and feelings of shame or inadequacy among South Asian LGBTQ+ individuals. By critically analyzing media portrayals, we can identify harmful stereotypes and work towards dismantling them, creating a more accepting and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
South Asian LGBTQ+ individuals often face unique challenges and mental health disparities due to intersecting factors such as cultural norms, family expectations, and discrimination. Media influence can exacerbate these challenges or contribute to resilience. Understanding the impact of media on mental health allows us to develop targeted interventions, support systems, and media literacy programs that can mitigate the negative effects and promote mental well-being within this population.
Media platforms provide spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to share their stories, raise awareness, and advocate for their rights. Discussing media influence allows us to highlight and amplify the voices of South Asian LGBTQ+ individuals, empowering them to challenge the status quo, advocate for inclusivity, and effect positive change within their communities.
In all, positive representation can provide validation and acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals, empower communities, increase visibility, and even change social attitudes. If I had grown up in an environment where I was exposed to media with positive representation of the LGBTQ+ community, I always wonder if I would’ve explored my own identity earlier, and what my experiences and mental health would be like now.
Positive representation does not have to, and should not, stop at media. Seeing positive representation in all spaces, such as the mental health space can also be a positive influence. In particular, having a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist can be helpful in forming a more empathetic and connecting environment.
The Queer Lens: Queer Filmmakers and LGBTQ+ Storytelling
There is a growing number of South Asian queer filmmakers who are actively reshaping narratives and contributing to LGBTQ+ storytelling in the region. Some notable filmmakers include:
- Onir: Onir is an Indian filmmaker known for his films “My Brother… Nikhil” (2005) and “I Am” (2010). His works explore LGBTQ+ themes and challenge societal norms, portraying the struggles and triumphs of queer individuals in India.
- Faraz Arif Ansari: Faraz Arif Ansari directed the film “Sisak” (2017), which is India’s first silent LGBTQ+ love story. He is known for his commitment to telling authentic and inclusive stories that reflect the experiences of queer individuals.
- Shonali Bose: Shonali Bose directed the film “Margarita with a Straw” (2014), which tells the story of a bisexual woman with cerebral palsy exploring her sexuality and identity. The film received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes.
- Sridhar Rangayan: Sridhar Rangayan is an Indian filmmaker and LGBTQ+ activist. He has directed films like “The Pink Mirror” (2003), “Yours Emotionally!” (2006), and “Breaking Free” (2015), which shed light on queer experiences and challenges in India.
Several LGBTQ+ films and web series have made a significant impact on South Asian audiences by addressing LGBTQ+ issues, fostering empathy, and promoting inclusivity. Some examples include:
- “Made in Heaven” (2019): This Indian web series explores the lives of two wedding planners in Delhi and features a storyline involving a gay character struggling with societal expectations. The show garnered praise for its nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences and challenges.
- “Aligarh” (2016): Based on a true story, this film delves into the life of Dr. Shrinivas Ramchandra Siras, a gay professor who faced discrimination and persecution. The film highlights the importance of privacy, dignity, and acceptance.
- “Loev” (2015): This Indian romantic drama film portrays a gay love story set against the backdrop of a road trip. The film received critical acclaim for its sensitive depiction of same-sex relationships and the complexities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
- “The Other Love Story” (2016): This Indian web series explores the journey of two young women discovering their love for each other. It resonated with audiences for its realistic and relatable portrayal of lesbian relationships.
Authentic storytelling, such as in the pieces of media above, remind us of how powerful and impactful positive representation can be. Media can impact our mental health and provide a safe space for self-acceptance, and as filmmakers continue to produce projects, it is my hope and belief that they will provide more LGBTQ+ representation that will positively impact our communities.
LBGTQ+ Affirming Mental Health Care
LGBTQ+ affirming therapy is crucial for the mental health and well-being of South Asian LGBTQ+ individuals. It provides a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore their identities, navigate challenges specific to their intersectional experiences, and receive validation and understanding.
For South Asian LGBTQ+ individuals, who may face cultural barriers, family expectations, and discrimination, finding therapists who are knowledgeable and sensitive to their unique experiences is essential. LGBTQ+ affirming therapy helps individuals address internalized stigma, navigate coming out processes, develop coping strategies, and build resilience in the face of societal challenges.
Having a therapist that accepted my identity for who I am was immensely helpful in validating my feelings and emotions. I wasn’t going crazy for re-evaluating my identity, and putting a label on it wasn’t going to hurt me. Exploring myself suddenly became a positive thing in my life.
We Rise Therapy is dedicated to providing support to all in the South Asian community, and the broader Women of Color community. Through culturally sensitive and inclusive practices, We Rise Therapy strives to create a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals to explore their mental health needs. Click here to learn more about our services!
In addition to therapy, there are several resources available to support the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals in South Asian contexts:
- LGBTQ+ Support Groups: Joining LGBTQ+ support groups or organizations can provide a sense of community, validation, and peer support. These groups often organize events, workshops, and discussions that address mental health concerns and foster a sense of belonging.
- Online Communities: Online platforms and forums specifically created for South Asian LGBTQ+ individuals offer spaces for sharing experiences, seeking advice, and connecting with others who understand their unique challenges. These communities can provide support and reduce feelings of isolation.
- LGBTQ+ Helplines and Hotlines: Helplines and hotlines provide immediate support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals in crisis or in need of assistance. They can offer guidance, information, and referrals to mental health professionals.
Seeing positive representation in the South Asian sphere and the American sphere is not nearly enough to solve all of our problems in the LGBTQ+ community, nor the mental health space. However, it is one step in the right direction for all of us to recognize all members of our communities and respect and appreciate each others’ identity. I hope that this Pride month is an experience and moment for us all to reflect on who we are and why that identity matters. Though the media can influence us, it does not define us; we define us.
If you’re looking into therapy options, check out We Rise Therapy to learn more.