Queer love takes centre stage

These five acclaimed shows broke stereotypes and brought authentic, nuanced queer romances to Indian screens and audiences

For years, queer characters in Indian entertainment were often confined to stereotypes, comic relief, or stories centred solely on struggle. However, the rise of streaming platforms has ushered in a significant shift, allowing creators to tell more authentic and layered stories.

Today, queer characters are portrayed with greater depth, navigating love, identity, friendship, family and self-discovery in ways that feel genuine and relatable. This Pride Month, we look at five shows that helped redefine queer romance on screen, proving that love in all its forms deserves visibility, acceptance, and celebration.

Four More Shots Please!

One of the earliest mainstream Indian OTT shows to feature a queer lead, Four More Shots Please! introduced viewers to Umang Singh, played by Bani J. A bisexual gym trainer, Umang’s story extended beyond her sexuality, exploring her ambitions, relationships, vulnerabilities, and personal growth. The series helped normalise LGBTQIA+ representation by portraying a queer character with nuance and emotional depth.

Made in Heaven

Few Indian series have explored queer identity as thoughtfully as Made in Heaven. Through wedding planner Karan Mehra, portrayed by Arjun Mathur, the show delves into themes of silence, shame, acceptance, and belonging. Across two seasons, Karan’s relationships, including his bond with Nawab, played by Vikrant Massey, are depicted with honesty and sensitivity, making the portrayal of queer love both authentic and deeply moving.

The Royals

Set against a glamorous royal backdrop, The Royals offers a refreshing queer storyline through Princess Divyaranjini “Jinnie” Singh, played by Kavya Trehan, and Niki, portrayed by Lisa Mishra. As their relationship evolves, the series explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and acceptance, bringing queer romance into a setting rarely seen in mainstream Indian storytelling.

Modern Love Mumbai

Inspired by real-life stories, Modern Love Mumbai broadens the definition of romance through its anthology format. One of its most impactful episodes, Hansal Mehta’s Baai, follows Manzu, played by Pratik Gandhi, a closeted gay man navigating the challenges of coming out to his conservative family while maintaining his relationship with partner Rajveer, portrayed by Ranveer Brar. The story focuses on love, family, and acceptance, offering a heartfelt perspective on queer identity.

Class

A bold adaptation exploring adolescence, privilege, and social divisions, Class resonated with younger audiences for its inclusive portrayal of identity and relationships. Among its standout storylines is the romance between Dhruv Sanghvi, played by Chayan Chopra, 

and Faruq Manzoor, portrayed by Chintan Rach. Their relationship became one of the series’ most-discussed arcs, reflecting a generation that embraces love beyond traditional boundaries.