KASHISH 2014 to screen foreign films on transgender issues

Films from Bangladesh, Britain, Spain and India, highlighting transgender issues, will be screened at the KASHISH Mumbai International Queer Film Festival, which will be held May 21-25.

"Films on transgender issues to watch out for at KASHISH 2014 are 'Will This Change' from Bangladesh, 'My Mother' from Britain, 'Sexicas' from Spain, as well as 'Rainbows Are Real', 'I'dentity' from India, among several others," Saagar Gupta, the fest's director of programming, said in a statement.

"'Can You See The Real Me' about the life of work of celebrity transgender hairstylist Slyvie is sure to touch many hearts and offer hope," Gupta added.

Earlier this week, the Supreme Court said that transgenders should be treated as a third category and as a socially and economically backward class should be entitled to reservations in jobs and education.

In its fifth edition and with its 'Dare To Dream' theme, the fest roots for the apex court's ruling.

Sridhar Rangayan, gay activist, filmmaker and festival director of KASHISH Mumbai International Queer Film Festival, said: "This is indeed a landmark judgment that will have a far-reaching effect on rights and welfare for transgender community in India."

"It will provide them right to education, health, employment and several other welfare schemes. It will make the community come out of the shadows and be part of the social mainstream."

Rangayan believes the fest's theme aptly reflects this emerging change.

"Every year we programme a large number of films on transgender issues from across the world and they have been greatly appreciated. This year too there is a spotlight on transgender films as well as a panel discussion planned to discuss the current scenario," he said.