Docu-series
At the onset of Pride Month, Arpita Chatterjee announces her first directorial docu-series based on LGBTQI+ community
Kolkata/IBNS: At the onset of the ongoing Pride Month, actress Arpita Chatterjee has announced her directorial venture, a first-of-its-kind non-fiction docu-series titled This Is Me.
The event was attended by an esteemed gathering of dignitaries, including award-winning filmmaker Onir; interdisciplinary artist and actor, Sujoy Prosad Chatterjee; TEDx Speaker, Fashion Designer, and LGBTQIA+ activist Abhishek Ray, TEDx Speaker and Digital Marketing Professional Chaitanya Sharma and Celebrated Percussionist Ratul Shankar, among others.
This Is Me, an English-language docu-series, aims to redefine societal perspectives on the LGBTQIA+ community.
Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS
The series seeks to dispel myths and provide a comprehensive understanding of the community through scientific, cultural, and historical lenses.
Embracing a global perspective, This Is Me features insights from a diverse spectrum of international experts, medical professionals, LGBTQIA+ members, legal authorities, and academic scholars.
The series is about to premiere on News9 Plus, India's first news OTT platform, to mark Pride Month 2024.
By providing an intimate look at the science, legality, and socio-cultural challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, the series promises to engage and enlighten viewers.
This Is Me highlights prominent members of the LGBTQIA+ community, including India's first transgender judge Joyita Mondal, India's first trans celebrity hair designer Sylvie Rodgers, and interdisciplinary artist Sujoy Prasad Chatterjee. These individuals share deeply personal and moving stories that reflect the indomitable human spirit.
Their narratives are further enriched by the expertise of notable professionals such as Supreme Court advocate Sanjay K Chadha, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Rajat Gupta, leading psychologist Dr. Jayanti Dutta, and activist Anjali Gopalan, who provide enlightening and comprehensive perspectives to the series.
Over the course of five episodes, This Is Me sheds light on often-misunderstood notions of gender identity and sexual orientation, while highlighting the significant challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community at the present moment.
The series delves into historical and social influences that have shaped societal perceptions, exploring topics such as the difference between gender identity and sexual orientation, the psychological impact of gender dysphoria, and the significance of gender realignment surgery.
Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS
Speaking on this occasion, Arpita Chatterjee said, "With This Is Me, we aim to challenge and change societal perceptions of the LGBTQIA+ community by shedding light on their firsthand experiences.
This docu-series is not just about the struggles, but also about the strength and unanimity that define this vibrant community. I believe it’s time for their stories to be heard, understood, and celebrated."
Speaking on the occasion, Onir said, "Arpita is a multi-talented lady; her journey has been ever-inspiring to me. From an actor to a singer to a dancer, she has aced it all in the past.
"Finally, as a director of a docuseries pertaining to a subject that is very close to my heart, it makes it all the more special to me. I am sure her directorial charisma will touch the hearts of many and work extensively like a catalyst in the minds of people less aware of the LGBTQIA+ community."
(Images by Avishek Mitra/IBNS)
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