Festivals

FESTIVALS: CELEBRATING TRANSGENDER DAY OF VISIBILITY

by Editorial Desk April 1 2025, 12:00 am Estimated Reading Time: 4 mins, 42 secs

Transgender Day of Visibility, observed on March 31st, is dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of the discrimination they face globally, while also acknowledging their invaluable contributions to society. The #Newsdesk reports…

Kuch Sapney Apne, the latest Hindi feature film by acclaimed filmmakers Sridhar Rangayan and Saagar Gupta, offers a powerful and empathetic portrayal of transgender identity, LGBTQ+ family dynamics, and the evolving nature of relationships in Indian society. Released around Transgender Day of Visibility (March 31st), the film highlights the journey of Ramesh, who embraces her true self as Rama, a transwoman, and the impact of this revelation on her wife and children. Featuring strong performances by Abhay Kulkarni and Veenah Naair, the film breaks stereotypes by presenting trans characters with dignity, sensitivity, and emotional depth. Kuch Sapney Apne is a landmark film in queer Indian cinema, emphasizing acceptance and the power of love and support within families. Now headed for a wider theatrical and OTT release, it is a must-watch for those seeking progressive and inclusive storytelling.

‘Kuch Sapney Apne’ Pushes the Envelope for Trans Women

The recently released Hindi feature film Kuch Sapney Apne is primarily about a gay couple and their relationship, but it also delves into the lives of their families, showing that relationships—queer or otherwise—are inherently complex. In a bold and sensitive move, writer-director duo Sridhar Rangayan and Saagar Gupta explore the evolving relationship between a trans woman and her wife.
The film follows Ramesh, the protagonist’s uncle, who decides to embrace her true identity as Rama, a trans woman. This revelation sends shockwaves through Rama's family, especially her wife Lata and their two children. While Rama’s elder brother Damodar, a conservative patriarch, struggles to accept her transition, Damodar’s wife Vasudha and son Kartik offer a more compassionate and supportive response.

A Director's Insight: Inspired by Real Lives and Silent Struggles

Director Sridhar Rangayan explained, “With the Transgender Day of Visibility around the corner on March 31st, we wanted to highlight the anguish of the generation of men from the 1960s and ‘70s who were trapped in marriages against their choice and unable to live their authentic selves due to familial and societal pressures. The character of Rama and her family was inspired by a real-life person who went through a transformation many years after marriage and having children. Their predicament and dilemmas were heart-wrenching. We hope that future generations won't have to face the same challenges and can live happier lives, embracing the gender identity that feels true to them.”

Abhay Kulkarni's Career-Defining Role as Ramesh/Rama

In a career-defining performance, seasoned actor Abhay Kulkarni—known for his work in Rustom, Kaminey, Sanju, Lajja, and series like Crime Patrol, Lakhon Mein Ek, Scam 1992, and Murder in Mahim—plays the dual role of Ramesh/Rama. He said this role was far more difficult and challenging than his previous portrayal of Ramesh in the film’s prequel Evening Shadows.

“We have seen many trans characters in films, but they are often portrayed with exaggerated mannerisms and a forced femininity. When I read the script and began working on it, I saw the depth in Rama. She’s not a typical trans character,” Kulkarni noted.

He shared how his understanding of Rama evolved during the shoot. “Initially, my approach towards Rama was sympathetic—almost pitiful. I would cry during rehearsals. But when it came time to film the scenes, something changed. Rama refused to cry. I tried to push myself as an actor, but the tears wouldn’t come. That’s when I understood—Rama doesn’t want sympathy. She is dignified, sensitive, and free. That’s the woman she is.”

Veenah Naair on Playing Lata: The Silent Strength of a Wife
Portraying Rama’s wife Lata was also a challenging task for actress Veenah Naair, known for films like Govinda Naam Mera, Do Aur Do Pyaar, Ullozhukku, Tarla, and series such as The Fame Game. Naair said, “Playing Lata in both Evening Shadows and Kuch Sapney Apne brought me immense joy. Lata is a woman whose capacity to love her husband and accept the situations around her stems from an innate sense of devotion and sanctity. Her simplicity and unconditional love for her husband stay in my heart with a warm smile.”

Naair also highlighted the importance of female camaraderie within families: “Lata’s support system is her sister-in-law Vasudha, who has been her inspiration since marriage. Her advice gives Lata the strength to deal with the heartbreak when Ramesh goes missing. The way Vasudha accepts her gay son becomes a mirror for Lata to accept her transgender spouse. When women stand by each other in families, it can be deeply empowering.”

Kulkarni shared a moving moment from the shoot in Mysore. While dressed as Rama, a transwoman, he was approached by a passerby who mistook him for a Hijra and asked him to bless her child. “I gave blessings to the child who handed me a five-rupee coin. That is the best award I received for playing Rama—I still have that coin.”

Looking Ahead: A Wider Release and Growing Impact

Kuch Sapney Apne had a limited theatrical release in 10 cities, where it was met with enthusiastic audience responses and critical acclaim. The filmmakers are now planning a wider release in theatres and on a streaming platform, hoping the story reaches a larger audience and sparks more conversations around gender identity, acceptance, and family.