One of the most delicate topics in Bollywood is certainly homosexuality. And most directors swing between (pun unintended) stereotyping it and showing it in an entirely different light. 

With Manjoj Bajpayee’s hard-hitting biopic Aligarh ( it’s based on Aligarh University professor Dr. S.R Siras, brings to life the life of the linguist who was caught in a sting operation and sacked for being gay) releasing today, we have put together five Bollywood flicks that explored this topic aesthetically. Take a look: 

Fire: 

Loosely based on Ismat Chugtai’s ‘Lihaaf’, Deepa Mehta’s controversial movie talked about lesbianism in the most beautiful way possible. Even though it was criticized, it paved way for other directors to give such topics a try.  

My Brother Nikhil: 

Directed by Onir, who is openly gay himself, the movie takes us through the love, friendship and relationships of a family dealing with a gay brother. It’s realistic, intriguing and interesting. 

Fashion: 

When a gay designer is tired of the society’s taunts, he gets married to his girl best friend just for the society. Their tumultuous relationship is a true depiction of what goes on in most households dealing with homosexuality. 

Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd: 

Two men, married to loving women, realise that they are gay. Their fight with their inner selves, the society, their wives and everybody else offers us a glimpse of their struggles. Kudos to Reema Kagti for keeping it real. 

I Am:

The movie, with four short films, takes a look at real life stories. The two films that represent homosexuality are Abhimanyu and Omar. Both are beautiful, thought-provoking and strikingly made. 

Which movie is your favourite? Let us know!