Hello Mumbai City Desk
Walking into Veda Black Box on a warm June afternoon felt like stepping into a space full of color, love, and stories waiting to be shared. The Colors of Love – Queer Film Festival 2025, beautifully curated by FilmyBees Cine Club, was more than just a film event — it was a celebration of identity, emotion, and community. Over two days, the festival screened 35 incredible films from 13 countries, and each one left something behind — a feeling, a question, a smile, or even a few tears. With more than 150 people attending, the vibe was intimate yet electric, like you were part of something truly meaningful.
What made this festival so special was how personal it felt. From the very first screening, you could feel the connection between the audience and the films. One film that truly stood out was What We Wrote Together by Nicolás Teté. It wasn’t just loved — it was felt by the audience. The film ended up winning two major awards: the Audience Choice Award and Best LGBT Film Director. You could hear people talking about it in the break, revisiting scenes, and even tearing up a little. Another big moment was when Velipādu: The Revelation by Jijo Jessy Kuriakose won Best Gay Film — it was raw, emotional, and beautifully made. There was also a special mention for The Hidden Battles of a Fragile Mind, which touched on mental health and queer identity with so much honesty.
And then there was Out, a Dutch film from the Netherlands, which was one of the spotlight films of the festival. It offered such a moving perspective on self-discovery and acceptance, and left a lasting impression. The other spotlight film, Heer Minus, was a stunning Indian music video that blended queerness and poetry in a way that felt magical on screen.
Between screenings, the Q&A sessions gave the audience a chance to connect directly with the filmmakers. These weren’t stiff or formal — they were real, sometimes funny, and often emotional. It felt like everyone — from the filmmakers to the audience — was part of the same journey. The closing ceremony brought it all together with performances, laughter, awards, and lots of hugs and selfies.
With support from The Humsafar Trust and Sweekar – The Rainbow Parents, the festival created a safe and joyful space for queer voices and allies to come together. It reminded everyone that stories have the power to heal, to unite, and to inspire. If you’ve never been to a festival like this before, Colors of Love is the one to start with. It’s not just about films — it’s about finding your people, and feeling seen.
