National Award-winning filmmaker Onir has been honoured with the Gay Bombay Icon Award by Gay Bombay, one of India’s most active LGBTQ+ organisations. Since its founding in 1998, the group has worked to create safe spaces for queer individuals through film screenings, workshops, awareness drives, and social events. The award celebrates people who have played a meaningful role in supporting queer rights and visibility.
Onir, India’s first openly queer filmmaker, has been a strong voice for LGBTQ representation in cinema. Through his films and advocacy, he has challenged stereotypes and opened conversations around identities often ignored in mainstream storytelling. His works are recognised internationally for their honesty, sensitivity, and boldness.
Expressing gratitude for the honour, Onir said being recognised by Gay Bombay was deeply special, as the organisation has been central to India’s queer movement. He recalled how, in his early years, he felt isolated in the industry for telling stories many resisted. It is the courage of the community that gave me strength to continue, he said, adding that the award symbolises collective resilience and hope for a society where dignity and love are respected without conditions.
Onir is widely admired for films like My Brother… Nikhil and I Am, which brought queer narratives into the mainstream. His recognition as a Gay Bombay Icon marks not just his personal journey, but also the growing acceptance and celebration of queer voices in Indian cinema and society.
