The signal may be mixed but it's timing is apt. The Delhi High Court is currently deliberating a petition filed by the Naz Foundation (India) Trust, a nongovernmental organization that supports gay rights, which asks that Section 377 be reevaluated to decriminalize private consensual sexual activity. Prominent Indians such as Nobel laureate Amartya Sen and acclaimed writer Vikram Seth have publicly demanded a legal change. Even the Health Ministry and Law Ministry have suggested the same. However the government maintains that gay sex is "against the order of nature" and propagates Western values. The hearings continue and a verdict is expected before year's end.
Advertisement
Opening India's closet
Even the faux-gay plot line of 'Dostana' is cutting edge in a culture where homosexuality is hidden.
WORLD CINEMA
Advertisement
While "Dostana" doesn't make any political statements, Johar is confident that it will add to the conversation. He says: "This is a baby step, but endeavors like this do open up vistas. Cinema has a tendency of opening up mind-sets and making you a little more prepared for things. It will be a talking point. And there can therefore, someday, be a 'Brokeback Mountain.' "
--
calendar@latimes.com
