The most important cog in the creation of a distinct cultural identity, cinema has always been an instrument of pride for marginalized sexualities. The legacy is being taken forward by the Chennai Rainbow Film Festival 2013, organized by Chennai Dost in association with the Alliance Francaise de Madras.
The festival, highlighting the trials faced by alternative sexualities both in India and abroad, will be held from the 7 to the 9 of June at the Alliance Francaise de Madras. Chennai Dost is a local collective and a GLB rights advocacy group set up in 2008 with over 3000 members. Alliance Francaise de Madras is a Franco-Indian non-profit organization promoting Francophone culture and cultural diversity.
The festival comprises 30 films, which include feature-length films, documentaries and shorts from a multitude of countries. It will kick start with the inauguration of an LGBT themed Photo and Art exhibition by Dr. Anita Ratnam, noted danseuse, followed by an award for the best Photo/art presented by Ms. Apsara Reddy, media personality.The festival will feature a dance by Ponni Abhinaya, classical performer and transgender activist.
CRFF will host multiple award ceremonies presided over by eminent director Balu Mahendra. Prominent allies of the community and LGBT activists will also be honoured. Another prominent draw will be a panel discussion on the portrayal of LGBT issues in the media. Panelists will include Mr. Gnani, film critic and director, Charu Nivedita, author, Rose Venkatesan, television host and Vikranth Prasanna, founder of Chennai Dost.
The festival will also have performances by Chennai Dost and Burlesque, a Bangalore based group. Entry is free for all.