Dostana Archives

Despite Bollywood Influences, I am Raising Two Feminist Sons. Here’s How To Do It

My sons and I love watching Bollywood movies together, but finding a film devoid of misogyny, objectification of women, and innuendo is a task. How do I explain to my kids what is wrong with “6 din, Ladki in” when SRK is mouthing it as if it’s the most chivalrous way to woo a girl in Kal Ho Naa Ho?

Aarti Pathak July 1, 2016

Bollywood

Thank You Soldier for the Ultimate Bobby Deol Experience

After Soldier, the verdict was out. Bobby Deol’s uncontainable sex appeal was in fashion, and the #ForearmAppreciationClub was in full swing. That lasted for a brief, wonderful minute.

Poulomi Das July 1, 2016

Bollywood

What Dostana Meant For an India Where Homosexuality Was Still a Crime

Despite its glaring flaws, Dostana played a role in drawing the attention of a nation oblivious to the queer community and its struggles. The film went on to define the mantra of the LGBT community: sexy, fabulous, and deeply individual.

Kahini Iyer June 22, 2016

Pop Culture

Dear Zindagi, Are You Mad?

Touted as a film on mental health, Dear Zindagi carried a pretty heavy responsibility. But what it did with that responsibility is, dressed it up in chic clothes and clichés.

Sharan Saikumar May 3, 2016

Bollywood

Has the Famously Homophobic Bollywood Really Changed in Post Sec-377 India?

In a post-Section 377 world, Bollywood has evidently taken major leaps. I was recently brought in as a consultant for a film script when the production team felt that the straight men writing a story about queer lives lacked insight.

Manish Gaekwad April 4, 2016