Archive · 23 Jul 2025
India's First Queer Film Premieres at Melbourne Film Festival
Imagine a movie that was one of the first to tell a story about LGBTQ+ people in India.
That movie, called ‘Badnaam Basti,’ is going to be shown at a big film festival in Australia.
It’s like a special celebration for stories about love, friendship, and being yourself.
The film festival will also show another new movie about similar themes.
This festival is a chance to celebrate these stories and remember how important it is for everyone to see themselves in movies.
The film festival started 16 years ago, and it's supported by the Australian government.
‘Badnaam Basti’, India's first queer film, will open Pride Celebratory Night at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.
The film, directed by Prem Kapoor, was originally released in 1971.
It explores themes of connection, friendship, and identity.
IFFM will also screen 'We Are Faheem & Karun', a new film by Onir.
IFFM 2025 marks the 16th year of the festival and is supported by the Government of Victoria.
- Who
- The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) and the film's director Prem Kapoor.
- What
- ‘Badnaam Basti’, India’s first queer-themed film, will open the Pride Celebratory Night at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.
- When
- August 22, at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM).
- Where
- Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, Australia.
- Why
- To celebrate queer cinema and South Asian LGBTQ+ identity.
Festival’s Goal
Not applicable
Representation
Festival’s Goal
Celebrating queer stories and reclaim the space denied to LGBTQIA+ narratives.
Not applicable
Not applicable.
- Event
- Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
- Film
- Badnaam Basti
- Director of ‘Badnaam Basti’
- Prem Kapoor
- Opening Night Theme
- Pride Celebratory Night
- Focus
- Queer stories and South Asian LGBTQ+ identity
- Festival Year
- 16th