Breaking Free

Breaking Free is a fascinating documentary that dissects the struggles and victories of the LGBTQ+ community in India. Directed by Sridhar Rangayan in 2015, the film features Vivek Anand, Manohar Elavarthi, and Anand Grover; all prominent figures in the fight for India's LGBTQ+ rights. This ground-breaking film dives deep into the inner workings of the long-standing socio-political movement, providing audiences with an inside look at the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.

At its core, Breaking Free is a direct critique and dissection of the archaic and homophobic law, Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized homosexual behavior in India. This law, a remnant of British colonial rule, positioned homosexuality as an "unnatural offence" and was actively in use until recent years, causing relentless societal harm and personal trauma to numerous individuals within the community.

The film ingeniously weaves together a bountiful tapestry of narratives, relying heavily on numerous personal crusades and tragedies. Through extensive interviews and personal accounts of individuals like Anand, Elavarthi, and Grover, Breaking Free delves into their personal stories, fears, triumphs, and resilience. The film places the audience in the heart of the struggle, connecting viewers directly with those affected, and adds invaluable layers of empathy and understanding. The individuals featured in the film are not just subjects, but rather real people with real stories that have fought relentlessly to be seen and acknowledged for who they are.

Director Sridhar Rangayan, with his fearless approach, successfully illuminates the societal stigma, prejudice, and criminalization of sexuality that India's LGBTQ+ community has endured. Importantly, the film lays bare the traumatic experiences of members of the community, including harassment and media ridicule, and brings to light their braveness and never-ending fight for equality.

Through Breaking Free, Rangayan fights against censorship and breaks societal norms that heavily stigmatize homosexuality in a country such as India, where open conversations about the subject are still largely taboo. The film uses clear-eyed storytelling and character-focused narratives to bring the viewers up-close and personal with the victims and heroes of the struggle for equality in India.

Anand Grover, celebrated human rights lawyer and United Nations Special Rapporteur, is one of the prominent figures showcased in the film. Grover's tireless work within the courts, defending the LGBT community against ongoing harassment and systemic prejudice, has been critical for the movement's advancements. He presents a compelling and enlightening legal perspective on the fight to overthrow Section 377, showcasing his deep commitment to social justice.

Vivek Anand and Manohar Elavarthi, both influential LGBTQ activists, share their incredible personal stories and often painful experiences. Their brave and relentless struggles form a significant part of the film's narrative, offering the viewers a genuine insight into their personal battles and lifelong commitment to the cause.

Breaking Free doesn't just stop at showcasing the personal and societal struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community in India. It goes one step further by highlighting the landmark ruling of 2009 by the Delhi High Court that decriminalized homosexuality. Though this was a remarkable victory for the LGBTQ+ rights movement, it was short-lived, as the Supreme Court of India overturned the ruling in 2013.

However, with its relentless exploration of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, the film identification of resilience, courage, and, ultimately, hope. Above all, Breaking Free underlines—that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable societal barriers, change can and should happen.

Breaking Free, aside from its inherent socio-political value, is a captivating film that does justice to each of the individuals it portrays. It's a moving portrait of a societal struggle against prejudice and discrimination. It serves as an unforgettable testament to the human spirit's ability to fight for love, acceptance, and the freedom to exist.

In essence, Breaking Free is a film that sparks dialogue, engenders empathy, and promotes understanding. It's a serious exploration of a topic rarely given its due in mainstream cinema, and a film that demands to be seen.