In an inspiring collaboration, renowned filmmaker Deepa Mehta has lent her support as a presenter to “We Are Faheem & Karun,” a poignant short film directed by Onir. Set against the dramatic and conflict-ridden landscape of Kashmir, the film explores a tender love story between two men, Faheem and Karun. Despite the Supreme Court of India’s historic 2018 decision to decriminalize homosexuality, societal acceptance remains elusive, a theme at the core of Onir’s latest work. As it prepares to screen at the Dharamshala International Film Festival, the film is already making waves for its emotional depth and socio-political commentary.
The story of “We Are Faheem & Karun” begins with Karun, a security guard from Kerala, stationed at a construction site in Kashmir. There, he meets Faheem, a local college student. The film was inspired by the real-life narrative of a former Indian Army major who was compelled to leave the military after coming out as gay, due to the Indian Armed Forces’ restrictions against LGBTQIA+ individuals serving openly. This profound narrative formed the basis of Onir’s script, which was initially rejected by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on the grounds of depicting a “queer soldier” as illegal, leading to the denial of a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
In a determined response to the censorship, Onir reimagined the film’s storyline, crafting a narrative that maintained the essence of the original while sidestepping bureaucratic barriers. This creative resilience highlights Onir’s enduring commitment to portraying authentic queer stories in mainstream Indian cinema. “Despite the setback, I stayed true to the story I wanted to tell,” Onir reflects, underscoring the challenges and triumphs of bringing such narratives to life in a society still grappling with the acceptance of diverse identities.
Deepa Mehta, famed for her groundbreaking work in ‘Fire’ (1996), a film that also dealt with themes of LGBTQIA+ identity and challenged societal norms, has lauded “We Are Faheem & Karun” for its emotional and thematic richness. “The film’s exploration of love, friendship, and duty transcends borders,” Mehta remarks. “It’s crucial to illuminate the heartache and humanity that surface amid geopolitical strife. Especially now, stories like this are essential.
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The involvement of actors Tawseef Mir and Akash Menon, who bring Faheem and Karun to life, adds depth to the movie’s emotional core. Their portrayal of a love that flourishes despite political and social turbulence resonates powerfully with audiences, emphasizing the universal nature of their story.
Onir, who has previously addressed LGBTQIA+ themes in his 2010 film “I Am,” continues to bear the torch for diverse representation in Indian cinema. “Post the 2018 Supreme Court ruling on IPC 377, there was hope for significant change,” Onir observes. “However, societal fragmentation remains a formidable barrier, making acceptance difficult. Young queer individuals still grapple with embracing their identities openly and proudly. This film is a call for empathy and a testament to the pain and loss many face.”
This cinematic journey mirrors Onir’s own perseverance against institutional opposition. Recalling a challenging phase in 2022 when the MoD’s rejection could have halted the project’s development, Onir asserted, “If you tell an artiste no, they will still make the film.” Two years later, “We Are Faheem & Karun” stands as a testament to this unwavering resolve, ready to meet the world with its powerful message.
As “We Are Faheem & Karun” prepares for its premiere, it invites viewers to engage with its narrative on love and acceptance. Onir hopes it will inspire introspection and dialogue on why empathy, a simple yet profound human experience, remains so difficult to extend, even in a post-decriminalisation era. The film challenges audiences to consider why welcoming something that does not intrude upon personal lives—such as the love between Faheem and Karun—still meets resistance.
By joining forces with Deepa Mehta, a storyteller of equal passion and courage, Onir amplifies the film’s call for empathy and understanding. “We Are Faheem & Karun” is more than a film; it’s a cultural dialogue urging a reevaluation of societal norms and the unyielding push for acceptance and kindness in contemporary India.
