Queer Politics in Cinema: The Evolving Paradigms of Representation of Queer in Malayalam Movies

Abstract

The question of silence regarding sexuality becomes highly problematic in India, a nation well renowned for its rich culture and tradition. Although the ancient Kama Suthra overtly depicts sexual acts including homosexuality, prostitution and sadomasochism, Indian culture typically treats sexual subjects as taboo. Often neglected by the heteronormative- phallogocentric society, the queer community in India remains 'underprivileged' even in the 21st century. The LGBT categories are more visible in the socio-political scenario of Kerala today, than in the earlier times. One of the best medium that reflects this transformation is cinema. The misrepresentation of the queer, especially the transgender, serves as a prime factor that leads to the abjection of the queer from the mainstream society which is highly patriarchal. Though Malayalam cinema has always been heteronormative, over the years, there is a considerable evolution in the treatment of the concept of sexuality. This change has resulted in a greater awareness and acceptance of alternative sexualities among the audiences