Indian Masala Mix 1 review: Heartwarming, zesty and thrilling tales of the LGBTQIA+ community finding strength, peace and acceptance

Indian Masala Mix 1 is a short film package that explores some deeply personal journeys of individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community toward finding peace and acceptance.

We might have often come across stories of the LGBTQIA+ community which are largely focused on their transition and society's way of looking at it. However, what we tend to overlook is their personal journeys and inner battles and conflicts that they are confronted with on a day-to-day basis just because they do not fit into the conventional ideas of society. The Indian Masala Mix 1 short films package at the Kashish Pride Film Festival explored these battles and their road to finding peace and acceptance through some zesty, thrilling, and heartwarming films that should definitely make it to your watchlist as and whenever they are available!

Here's what I had to say about them!

Make Up My Shield

Directed by Kunal Vijaykar, this emotional yet quirky and ethereal Marathi music video features a transwoman escaping hurtful criticism by retreating into dreamlike lavani performance. In the roughly 6-minute video embracing traditional attire, the protagonist admits to feeling empowered through dressing up and getting a makeover. For her, make-up is a trusted ally that brings her comfort and beauty but most importantly, a shield against judgment. The video starts on a zesty note but beautifully conveys the day-to-insecurities of a trans-woman or anyone who feels like they do not fit into society's conventional beauty standards, through upbeat music yet meaningful lyrics that keep you hooked on the song.  

I am Tejimola 

This animated short film is a poignant yet endearing exploration of gender expression and one's body's resistance against rigid societal norms. Inspired by the Assamese folktale Tejimola-he moi which tells the story of Tejimola, a shape-shifter, the protagonist in 'I am Tejimola' finds strength from Tejimola's tale of resilience and adaptability when a sinister presence takes over. The evil force here also serves as a metaphor for society's ill-treatment towards the LGBTQIA+ community or anyone it deems different. Hence, Aditav Dowerah's I am Tejimola, though slow-paced and sketchy, is an important commentary on how society can be hostile to non-conformists and one should rise above it and continue to build themselves.

Envy 

Helmed by Ronit Singha, the 11-minute short film Envy sees a college student struggling to accept his sexuality while maintaining a pretentious life shaped by reputation and relationships. While the film holds a mirror to the challenges and apprehensions individuals from the community face while contemplating coming out, the film lacks emotional depth and comes across as a basic offering on the subject. Having said this, the moments conveying the protagonist’s journey through the feelings of envy towards a confident queer batchmate and a constant battle with his inner self are relatable and hard-hitting. 

The Witch of Vihar Lake

The Witch of Vihar Lake, directed by Joey Kaushik explores the story of a village where fearsome tales of a witch and her shenanigans make people dread the area near it. The film is an intriguing saga of resistance and rebellion of a sibling duo - Ishita and Mitthu after a fateful night unravels life-altering truths about the two and the frightening witch. The short film comes across as a cinematic wonder as the makers, throughout its 15-minute run-time, bring their a-game forward to execute thrill, chills, and spook among the audience with an unexpected and hard-hitting climax elevating the overall experience. 

Could It Be?

Could It Be? It is a heartwarming tale of Arjun and Kartik, two teenage best friends, and how the latter's unexpected feelings for his friend put their bond to a test. Directed by Sandeep Keshari, the film beautifully captures the innocence, anticipation, and excitement of the first love along with the added confusion and uncertainties around varying sexualities. This coming-of-age tale set in Mumbai will resonate with everyone who has fallen in love at the most unexpected times with the most unexpected people, experiencing feelings of awkwardness, vulnerability, and immense joy in their unspoken emotions. 

These movie had their Indian premiere at Kashish Film Festival 2025.

For more reviews, follow us on @socialketchupbinge