UPDATE: The highly anticipated short film “Holy Curse” from filmmaker Snigdha Kapoor is making waves as it tackles urgent themes of gender identity and cultural repression. Released recently, the film centers on Radha, an androgynous preteen grappling with societal expectations during their visit to relatives in India.
Set against the backdrop of cross-cultural tensions, Radha’s journey reflects a powerful narrative of self-discovery. Kapoor, speaking from her home in Jersey City, shared that the film captures moments of roadside urination, symbolizing the struggles faced by young individuals questioning their gender identity. “I’ve done that so many times,” Kapoor remarked during a Zoom interview, emphasizing the relatable yet profound experiences depicted in her work.
The film’s unique visual style—characterized by claustrophobic shots and jump cuts—mirrors Radha’s internal conflict. In a twist, the uncle arranging a ritual to “cleanse” Radha of their queerness is not portrayed as a villain, showcasing that even well-meaning family members can enforce repressive norms. This complex portrayal stems from Kapoor’s own childhood experiences in Ghaziabad, where her grandfather imposed strict gender roles.
Kapoor reflects on her past, stating, “I grew up thinking I was a boy,” and detailed how her grandfather’s comments during her puberty were rooted in fear and cultural expectations. “People were shot in broad daylight,” she recalled, highlighting the dangers of self-expression in a conservative environment.
After moving to the U.S. nearly thirteen years ago to work as a cinematographer, Kapoor felt a lack of nuanced stories representing the South Asian diaspora. Driven by this gap, she taught herself to write, leading to the creation of “Holy Curse.” The film faced significant challenges during casting, with parents expressing reluctance to expose their daughters to its themes. Ultimately, Kapoor discovered her lead, Mrunal Kashid, just days before filming began, finding a young actor reminiscent of her own youth.
Kapoor aims to leave Radha’s experience undefined, avoiding labels that can feel restrictive. “I don’t know how they’re going to feel in ten years,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of allowing space for growth and self-identification. Her approach invites viewers to engage with Radha’s journey authentically, without the confines of traditional terminology.
With its release, “Holy Curse” not only serves as a poignant exploration of gender identity but also reflects broader societal challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. As conversations around gender continue to evolve, Kapoor’s work stands as a vital contribution to the dialogue, urging audiences to consider the complexities of identity beyond cultural constraints.
The film is now available for viewing, and audiences are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences, sparking further discussions on gender and identity in diverse cultural contexts.