In the past few years, the entertainment industry has embraced the LGBTQ+ community by giving them the spotlight they deserve! Gone are the days of being sidelined as supporting characters; they’re now taking center stage and stealing the show, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. These characters are fan favorites, bringing unique stories and vibrant personalities to the table. Get ready to celebrate Pride Month because we’ve got a lineup of seven of the coolest characters from audio and web series just for you!
Rahul from ‘Desi Down Under’
Platform: Audible
Meet Rahul, voiced by talented actor Taaruk Raina, who brings boundless joy wherever he goes! As a gay man, Rahul exudes confidence and embraces his sexuality with pride. However, he has always hidden his true self from his parents and society. Be a part of his journey in Desi Down Under as he steps foot in Sydney, where he encounters Taylor, an Italian resident who challenges Rahul’s fear of commitment, propelling him on a thrilling journey of self-discovery, love, and embracing the unexpected.
Rashi from ‘Mine and Yours S2’
Platform: Audible
Rashi, voiced by Kubbra Sait, is a central character in this series. As Priya’s ex-girlfriend, Rashi’s unexpected visit from the US shakes things up in her live-in relationship with Jaiveer. Their shared history and deep connection ignite a competitive race for Priya’s heart, fueling jealousy and a complicated dynamic between the three. As Priya explores her sexuality and navigates the intricacies of love, Rashi’s presence challenges the foundations of their relationships. Join this compelling journey as Rashi, Priya, and Jaiveer unravel the depths of love and discover what truly matters in their pursuit of happiness on ‘Mine and Yours Season 2.’
Ved Mehra from ‘The Other Man’
Platform: Audible
Ved Mehra, heir to a Mumbai business empire, is a closeted gay man. Pressured into an arranged marriage, Ved’s world is turned upside-down when he meets Carlos Silva, an American visitor. As his wedding preparations unfold, Ved enters into an unexpected relationship, defying family expectations and traditional norms. Determined to embrace his true self, Ved fights for his happiness despite the risks involved. Will he find the courage to declare his true feelings before it’s too late? Find out only on ‘The Other Man.’
Shardul Thakur from ‘Badhaai Do’
Platform: Netflix
Shardul, a young policeman, hides his true identity as a gay man. When he meets Suman Singh, Shardul discovers that Suman is a lesbian. Due to a strange turn of events, they agree to a marriage of convenience, while secretly living separate lives. Their situation becomes complicated as they navigate societal pressure to have a child. While Shardul and Suman apply for adoption, what will happen when their secret fake marriage is exposed and their identities revealed? Watch Badhaai Do to find out!
Sharan Gujral from ‘Class’
Platform: Netflix
Get ready to dive into Sharan Gujral’s story in Netflix’s ‘Class,’ brought to life by the talented Moses Kaul. Follow Sharan’s journey of self-discovery as his relationship with classmate Koel challenges his understanding of his own sexuality. In a complex dynamic involving Koel and fellow student Balli, Sharan’s submissive nature leads him to explore sexual encounters with the both of them. Tune in to find out more intriguing details about the tragic incident they face and how each of them end up getting embroiled in an accident that changes their lives forever.
Manzu from ‘Modern Love: Mumbai – Baai’
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
An emotional rollercoaster in Modern Love Mumbai – Baai awaits you, where Pratik Gandhi portrays Manzu, a gay man who has come out to everyone except for his beloved grandmother, Baai. In a truly powerful scene, Manzu battles his own emotions and tries to resist his partner, Rajveer, only to eventually find comfort in his embrace. Join Manzu on his journey of introspection, as he embraces his true identity, confronts challenges that come his way, and reflects on the beautifully complex nature of his own heart in this captivating episode.
Amaara from ‘Four More Shots Please!’
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Bani J brings life to the character of Umang Singh in ‘Four More Shots Please,’ a bold and unapologetic bisexual woman who fearlessly embraces her desires. Hailing from a small town, Umang exudes confidence and refuses to conform to societal norms. Umang’s journey in the show celebrates diversity and challenges societal expectations, making her a truly remarkable character. With her authentic portrayal of a woman embracing her sexuality, her character becomes one of the best LGBTQ+ representations in a series.
