Actress Shivangi Verma, who was last seen in Control Room, feels social media has played a big role in starting the conversation around the LGBTQ+ community and the issues they face. She believes it has made it easy to discuss.
“Social media has played an important role in initiating conversations about topics like LGBTQ+ issues. Before social media, discussing such topics was considered taboo, and people felt ashamed to talk about them. But now, it’s become more normal and easier to discuss,” she said.
“Many influencers from the LGBTQ+ community have emerged on social media and in real life, and they’re thriving. They not only excel in their own lives but also advocate for their community. I believe these individuals are more humane, sensible, and better than many of us in every aspect,” she added.
Shivangi asserted that people who belong to the LGBTQ+ community should come out of the closet, and others should make them feel comfortable. “They should never feel like they’re abnormal or anything like that, because I don’t think they’re abnormal in any way. Love is love, and feelings are feelings, you can’t control them, so let them flow. Let your true self out of the closet. Who cares what people think? We only have one life to live, why waste it worrying about what others think?” she said.
She also stressed that movies and shows are playing an important role in creating awareness about LGBTQ+ issues. She said, “The scripts of movies and shows that involve these topics are beautifully written, often in a subtle way. I personally love watching such movies and shows.”
“For example, Cobalt Blue has beautifully written characters and script, while Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui explores the topic in depth with a mix of drama and comedy. Another great example is the show The Married Woman, which is one of the best shows I’ve seen and contributes to spreading awareness about these important issues. It’s clear that entertainment is playing an important role in creating,understanding and acceptance regarding this topic,” she added.
What more can be done? “I believe we need to start by having open conversations about LGBTQ+ topics and stop treating them as taboo. It’s perfectly normal, and these people are just as normal as anyone else; we need to understand that. Secondly, it’s crucial to include these topics in the school curriculum so that children can gain a thorough understanding. Lastly, it’s important for us to treat LGBTQ+ people with the respect they deserve because, in my view, they are creations of God, and hurting or disrespecting them is equal to hurting or disrespecting God,” Shivangi ended.
