22nd June 2023, Mumbai: Everyone was impressed by actor Gulshan Devaiah’s subtly powerful portrayal of a homosexual character in Badhaai Do (2022). The actor says he is pleased to see people’s attitudes towards these stories shifting as he celebrates pride month. The actor describes an event that led him to think that people are genuinely starting to be open.
“I was filming in Dehradun for my movie Guns and Gulabs. And by chance, Badhaai Do co-star Rajkummar (Rao) was also present. Every time we went to the restaurant while staying at the same hotel, several of the other guests and locals with their families would come in to eat. Many times, grandmothers would come to Raj and me to express their appreciation for the movie. They even remarked on what a great couple we made on screen. I was really shocked by that,” he remembers.
According to Devaiah, he is unaware of any additional information or observations regarding the acceptance of LGBTQIA+ stories by Indian viewers, and his personal experiences have led him to believe that these films can make a difference.
“I haven’t read any research reports or statistics indicating whether or not films on homosexuality are popular. But this is what I have found. I never expected so many people to come and support Badhaai Do in such a little town as Dehradun. Things are changing,” he continues, “if people come in and wish me well.”
The 45-year-old claims that people are much more forthcoming now, and perhaps the movie business needs to acknowledge that fact. “Perhaps we overestimate the complexity of our civilization. You can’t force everything down someone’s throat while discussing any delicate subject. Really, it all depends on how you broach the matter with them. There is no need to promote any ideas because when you create tales, people can identify with your characters”, in his opinion. He also believes that films have the capacity to have an impact on viewers, often in a positive way.
“I’m not sure whether anything has changed specifically, but there are unquestionably more stories being told. The soft power of film can influence society and advance inclusivity. We must be careful not to overestimate or underestimate the power of films or of stories”, warns Devaiah, who also admits that there was no formal preparation for his role in the movie.
He continues, “I fully enjoyed the idea that I would be romancing Raj, and that’s all I had to do. I don’t want to overcomplicate things. Simply said, I attempted to write honestly. How is it relevant? How does a character’s gender factor into the plot? My reality would be to fall in love with a lamp post. So, it was completely irrelevant,” Devaiah concludes.
-by Kashvi Gala