#Mumbai Airport News

[indianfasttrack]

Mumbai Airport: मुम्बई हवाई अड्डे पर यात्रियों से वसूला जाएगा यूडीएफ

एयरपोर्ट प्रबंधन ने यात्रियों से उपयोगकर्ता विकास शुल्क (UDF) वसूल करने का प्रस्ताव तैयार किया है। इसके मुताबिक घरेलू और अंतरराष्ट्रीय यात्रियों से एक्ट्रा टैक्स वसूला जाएगा। (UDF will be collected from passengers at Mumbai airport) मुम्बई: एयरपोर्ट से उड़ान भरना अब महंगा होने जा रहा है। मुम्बई अंतरराष्ट्रीय हवाई अड्डे के विकास को लेकर एयरपोर्ट प्रबंधन ने यात्रियों से उपयोगकर्ता विकास शुल्क…

[kimludcom]

Navi Mumbai - India's Brand New Mega Airport @Kimlud

[hype24]

Airport staffer held for human trafficking | Mumbai News

Mumbai: The city crime branch probing the human trafficking racket which had allegedly sent more than 80 persons from Gujarat to Canada, London, and Turkey on Friday arrested an employee of an international airlines. The Crime Intelligence Unit (CIU) caught Rameshwar Pratap Singh (53), a resident of Mira Road working for VJet Vietnam Airlines. Singh, who was produced before the holiday court on…

[real-estate-01]

The Navi Mumbai International Airport Updates suggest that the airport is all set to be a game changer and take property markets to new orbits.

[gamigroupmumbai]

Gami Ghansoli Station

[lyricsolution-com]

Salman Khan Arrives At Mumbai Airport Amid High Security | People News

Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Salman Khan was spotted at the Mumbai airport early Friday morning. The actor was accompanied by his personal bodyguard Shera and staff members. The actor’s outing comes amidst heightened security concerns following several death threats over the past few months. Take A Look: Salman kept his look stylish yet simple as he wore a casual black shirt which he paired with…

[cresceragroup]

Land for Sale in Third Mumbai: KCS New Town Development

Explore prime land and plots in the emerging Third Mumbai, known as KCS New Town. This extensive development project by the MMRDA encompasses 124 villages, creating a modern urban landscape around the Navi Mumbai International Airport. Here’s a closer look at some key areas within this exciting development:

Chirle: A strategically located hub that is rapidly transforming, Chirle offers excellent opportunities for residential and commercial development, leveraging its proximity to the airport.

Vindhane: This picturesque area is ideal for creating residential complexes and green spaces, making it a sought-after location for families and investors alike.

Ranjanpada: With its enhanced connectivity, Ranjanpada is an attractive investment destination for infrastructure and housing projects, set to benefit from the ongoing development initiatives.

Chirner: Positioned near the airport, Chirner presents ample land for industrial and logistics facilities, capitalizing on its strategic location for business growth.

Jui: A vibrant locality that offers mixed-use development opportunities, Jui is perfect for those looking to invest in both residential and commercial properties.

Pirkone: Emerging as a residential hotspot, Pirkone is appealing to families and individuals seeking a suburban lifestyle with access to urban amenities.

Vasheni: This area is gaining attention for real estate development, making it a promising investment option for those looking to capitalize on urban expansion.

Sarde: Transitioning from its agricultural roots, Sarde is opening up to urban development, presenting opportunities for investors looking to develop residential and commercial projects.

Punade: Ideal for affordable housing, Punade caters to the growing demand for budget-friendly living spaces, making it a strategic investment choice.

KCS New Town is poised to create a well-planned urban ecosystem that prioritizes sustainability and connectivity. Investing in land in this developing area not only promises future growth but also positions you at the forefront of Mumbai’s expansion. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this transformative project in Third Mumbai! Crescera Group

[playermagic23]

Anushka Sharma returns to Mumbai amid rumors of a move to London.

Anushka Sharma was recently sighted at Mumbai Airport, making her first appearance in the city after reports circulated that she and her husband, Virat Kohli, had relocated to London. Fans have long speculated that the power couple is settling in London to escape the relentless media attention in Mumbai. The actress was seen walking through the airport without her children on Wednesday morning.

A stylish all-black attire. Anushka wore a beautiful all-black ensemble on her homecoming to Mumbai. She wore jet-black leggings with a matching blazer and black sunglasses to complete her ensemble. With a neat hairstyle and sandals, she effortlessly balanced comfort and sophisticated style. Anushka grinned and waved to the photographers as she entered the airport, before hastily getting into her car and leaving the event.

Fans are excited to see Anushka back in action. This event is especially exciting for fans because it marks Anushka's return to the spotlight following the birth of her son, Akaay. The actress and Virat Kohli welcomed their newborn boy in February of this year, and they shared the happy news with their Instagram fans. Despite the reports of their move to London, Anushka recently hinted that she might be returning India soon, putting fans on edge.

The anticipation for Chakda Xpress grows. On the professional front, Anushka Sharma's highly anticipated film, Chakda Xpress, is in the works. The biopic of cricketer Jhulan Goswami's life would be her big return to film after a six-year absence. Her most recent film role was in Zero, co-starring Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif. The sports drama will be released on Netflix, though the release date has yet to be revealed.

[rightnewshindi]

एयर इंडिया की फ्लाइट में बम की धमकी से मचा हड़कंप, तिरुवनंतपुरम एयरपोर्ट पर की इमरजेंसी लैंडिंग

Air India Bomb Threat: एयर इंडिया की फ्लाइट को बम की धमकी के बाद तिरुवनंतपुरम एयरपोर्ट पर इमरजेंसी सिचुएशन में उतारा गया। गुरुवार सुबह तिरुवनंतपुरम एयरपोर्ट पर उस समय तनाव की स्थिति पैदा हो गई, जब मुंबई से आ रही एयर इंडिया की फ्लाइट को बम की धमकी के बाद इमरजेंसी सिचुएशन में उतारना पड़ा। यह घटना सुबह करीब 7.30 बजे हुई, जब एयर इंडिया की फ्लाइट के पायलट ने एयरपोर्ट के अधिकारियों को धमकी के बारे में…

[mhlivenews]

८५९ इमारतींना परवानगी नाकारली, मुंबई विमानतळ परिसरातील आस्थापनांबाबत प्रधिकरणाचा निर्णय

मुंबई: विमानतळालगतच्या इमारतींच्या उंचीसंबंधीच्या निकषांतर्गत भारतीय विमानतळ प्राधिकरणाने मागील वर्षभरात ८५९ इमारतींना परवानगी नाकारली आहे. मात्र, त्याचवेळी ८६३ इमारतींना परवानगी प्राप्तदेखील झाली आहे. तर काही स्वयंचलित ‘ना हरकत’ देण्यात आले आहेत. छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराज आंतरराष्ट्रीय विमानतळ परिसरातील इमारतींचा विषय मुंबईसाठी भिजत घोंगड्यासारखा झाला आहे. एकीकडे सध्या कुठल्याही उंच टॉवर उभारणीला…

[indianfasttrack]

मुम्बई एयरपोर्ट पर हसीना गिरफ्तार, पेट के अंदर से मिले कोकीन के 100 कैपसूल

Mumbai Airport: मुम्बई एयरपोर्ट पर DRI ने ब्राजील की महिला को 10.96 करोड़ रुपये की कोकीन के 100 कैप्सूल निगलने के आरोप में गिरफ्तार किया। भारत में ड्रग्स की तस्करी के लिए महिला ब्राजील के साओ पाउलो से आई थी। (Hasina arrested at Mumbai airport, 100 capsules of cocaine found inside her stomach) Mumbai Airport News: देश की आर्थिक राजधानी मुम्बई से एक ऐसी खबर सामने आ रही है जिसे पढ़कर आप दंग रह…

[gehisimmigrationservice]

What Are the Key Considerations before Initiating an Intracompany Transfer?

Intracompany Transfer, also known as intra-corporate transfer or international transfer, refers to the relocation of employees within the same company from one office, branch, or subsidiary to another, typically across international borders. This relocation can involve employees at various levels, from entry-level staff to high-level executives.

Intracompany Transfers play an important role in the global operations of modern businesses. Proper considerations and planning are essential in the legal, cultural, and logistical challenges, ultimately contributing to the success of the transferred employees and the company as a whole.

What is The Legal Framework For Initiating Intercompany Transfer?

The legal system governing intracompany transfers is comprised of a mix of national laws, international treaties, and particular visa categories. Companies must manage these restrictions to ensure compliance and allow staff to roam freely across borders.

Immigration laws are established by individual countries to regulate the entry, stay, and work of foreign nationals within their borders. These laws address issues such as visa requirements, work permits, and eligibility criteria for foreign workers.

Each country has its own set of immigration laws and regulations governing the entry and employment of foreign nationals. These laws define the processes for obtaining work visas, residency permits, and other necessary documentation. Understanding and complying with these national laws are crucial for a successful Intracompany Transfer.

Click on the Link to Know More: Requirements for Intracompany Transfer

Some regions or groups of countries enter into international agreements that impact immigration and labor mobility. For example, the European Union has agreements allowing for the free movement of workers among member states. Companies operating within such regions must consider the implications of these agreements on Intracompany Transfers.

US has established visa categories explicitly for Intracompany Transfers. These visas often facilitate the movement of employees within multinational corporations. Requirements may include proof of the employment relationship, the employee’s qualifications, and the temporary nature of the assignment. Examples include the L-1 visa in the United States and the Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) visa in the United Kingdom.

What are The Employer Obligations For Intercompany Transfer?

Employers engaging in Intracompany Transfers must adhere to various obligations to ensure legal compliance and the well-being of transferred employees. This includes compliance with local laws and fulfilling documentation requirements.

Employers must comply with the local employment standards set by the host country. This includes adhering to regulations related to working hours, overtime, vacation entitlements, and other fundamental employment conditions. Understanding and adhering to these standards is necessary for maintaining a positive work environment and avoiding legal issues.

Click on the Link to Know More: Requirements for Intracompany Transfer

Labor regulations vary from country to country and cover aspects such as employee rights, termination procedures, and workplace safety. Employers must be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure a smooth transition for the transferred employees and prevent legal complications.

Drafting comprehensive employment contracts is essential for clarity and legal protection. These contracts should outline the terms and conditions of employment, including job responsibilities, duration of the assignment, compensation, benefits, and any other relevant details. Compliance with both the sending and receiving country’s labor laws should be considered when formulating these contracts.

Employers may be required to provide proof of the qualifications and skills of the transferred employee. This could include academic degrees, professional certifications, and any other documentation verifying the employee’s ability to perform the assigned duties. Ensuring that the employee meets the educational and professional requirements of the host country is vital for obtaining necessary visas and work permits.

Employers must ensure that transferred employees receive compensation and benefits in compliance with local laws. This includes adhering to minimum wage requirements, providing any mandatory benefits, and addressing taxation issues. Additionally, companies should consider the cost of living differences between the home and host countries when determining salary and benefits packages.

What Can Be Strategic Planning For Intercompany Transferee?

Intracompany Transfers should be strategically planned to align with the overall business objectives and ensure the success of the transfer process. Key considerations include:

Clearly define the business necessity behind the Intracompany Transfer. Identify how the transfer contributes to the company’s goals, whether it involves knowledge transfer, skill enhancement, project management, or other strategic objectives.

Consider the company’s expansion plans and how the Intracompany Transfer fits into these initiatives. Assess whether the transfer is part of a broader strategy to enter new markets, strengthen existing operations, or establish a regional presence.

Click on the Link to Know More: Requirements for Intracompany Transfer

Conduct a thorough skill gap analysis to determine the specific skills and expertise required for the transferred employee to succeed in the new role. Identify any training needs and plan accordingly to bridge any gaps.

Conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to assess the financial implications of the Intracompany Transfer. Evaluate the costs associated with relocation, training, potential compensation adjustments, and compare them to the expected benefits, such as increased productivity, knowledge transfer, and improved business outcomes.

Strategic planning for Intracompany Transfers involves aligning the transfer with business objectives, conducting a thorough analysis of skill requirements, performing cost-benefit assessments, and considering various factors such as relocation expenses and compensation adjustments. A well-planned transfer strategy contributes to the success of the transfer and the achievement of broader business goals.

Final Word

Comprehensive planning is the cornerstone of successful Intracompany Transfers. It involves meticulous attention to legal requirements, strategic alignment with business objectives, and a thorough understanding of the financial implications. By addressing key considerations, such as compliance, documentation, strategic planning, transfer expenses, and compensation adjustments, companies can balance the complexities of international employee mobility effectively.

A well-executed Intracompany Transfer not only facilitates the movement of employees but also contributes to the company’s growth, global competitiveness, and the development of a diverse and skilled workforce. Companies that prioritize comprehensive planning are better positioned in the challenges of global mobility, foster positive employee experiences, and achieve long-term success in their international operations.

Click on the Link to Know More: Requirements for Intracompany Transfer

[techandtravel]

Mumbai to Ayodhya Flights by IndiGo Starting January 15, 2024

Mumbai to Ayodhya Flights by IndiGo Mumbai to Ayodhya Flights by IndiGoEasy-Peasy Travel with IndiGo Flight 6E-5378Daily Flights for Hassle-Free JourneysMore Flights to Look Forward ToVinay Malhotra Talks About the Big MoveAyodhya’s Rs 350 Crore AirportGrand Opening by PM ModiMore Than Just a RunwayKeeping It Green and Clean Mumbai to Ayodhya Flights by IndiGo-Get ready for some fantastic news,…

[happysprings]

Chapter 2

Few days before the wedding guys and their families arrive in Mumbai. Gia called you to pick up the guys but you were in middle of shoot. So instead of you Gia asked Aarav to recieve the guys from airport to home.

(You live with Gia and her family because when you were 11 your parents had an accident and they passed away and since Gia and your parents were childhood besties Gia's parents made you stay with them as if you're their daughter )

The guys reached home which was massive. It can be said that Gia's parents were Hella rich. The house was just like the palace the moment guys and their families arrived. Gia's family welcomed them with garland and sweets. The moment when the greetings were over and everyone were settled in their rooms. Scoups called you however you weren't able to answer you were still shooting. So scoups went to Gia and asked where were you to which Gia informed that you were shooting for your movie.

Today was the last day of the shoot and the moment you rapped up there was party. The director adored you and requested you to come so you changed yourself in casuals and went to the party and stayed there for like an hour or so. It was already 2 in the morning. You reached home at 3 in morning, all burnt out. You entered home and saw Dk Dino and seungkwan roaming around the garden. You went there straight and hugged them. "Woah niki where were you??" Seungkwan asked you. You were so tired yet you said "today was the last day of the shoot and there this completion party that the director insisted to attend. So kind of had to...and I seriously would love to drink if you guys are planning to." Dino came forward and asked "whiskey on the rocks ??" "Please bring it on" you said with a smile . Then Dk enquired "so what kind of shoot it was ???" You said "it's a movie..that I am doing.. kind of a love story between a princess and the soldier... Kind of romantic" suddenly you hear scoups voice from behind "sounds interesting!" You turn to see scoups standing you look at him took a pause, whereas others understood the atmosphere and disappeared. "Yup..how are you ?? How was the flight" you asked without a word scoups came forward and took the glass and placed it on the table near by and hugged you. Smelling your hair his hands making patterns at the small back of yours. You touched his chest whispering "don't do it here Gia's family would see us" scoups retrieves slowly spoke "find then let's go! I have to talk" he held you hand and went straight inside the palace and suddenly you saw Aarav and removed your hand from his grip. Aarav smiled at you " heyy.. you're back..did you eat? Do you need coffee??" You declined and looked at scoups as you moved ahead with scoups Aarav spoke again "you guys are friends??" Before you could say anything scoups answered "yes..we know each other very well and we have a lot catch up if you'll excuse us" . You awkwardly smiled and said "you heard him.. I'll see you tomorrow!"

As you made your way inside scoups room you threw your bag and turned around and folded your hands and asked "what was that ??? Why were you so rude ??" To which scoups answered "rude seriously?? I wanted to talk to you spend some time he was speaking continuously." You roled your eyes "what you wanna talk about ?" Scoups spoke "why are you ignoring me ?? See I like you a lot!..why you're doing this ? It's been months.." "yes it's been months after your dating scandal with SinB ...what the hell you expect me to do ?? It just way too difficult for me!" Scoups softend listening to you and held your hands and spoke "see nothing is going on between us... To be precise nothing was there to begin with.." then why did she say all those things I being your new toy " "she liked me since I debuted... I never reciprocated her feelings because I never had any feelings for her... everything I felt was only for you...no-one else." Before you could speak you got a call from Gia's mom and you rushed out of the room and went straight to Gia's mom you saw your aunt and went to her and hugged her tightly "my godd aunty...it's been a while...I missed you so much.." "I know kiddo I was in Delhi when Gia's mom gave me the news of wedding and I came..so tell me did you prepare anything for the cocktail and sangeet party ? " You smiled and nodded and said " I have something ready already already." "Can't you tell me ??" Asked your aunt and suddenly Woozi's and seunghcheol's mom joined you bowed them hello and you spoke "I am really very sorry I wasn't able to pick you up...I was somewhere really far.." seunghcheol's mom spoke "it's fine...btw I saw your music video cheol showed it to me and I have heard a lot about you." You smiled and said "dear ladies I must tell you that it 4 in the morning and we have a cocktail and sangeet ceremony tomorrow please let's get our beauty sleep." Everyone smile and went to their rooms and so did you. From your room you called Dino and prepared a surprise dance for everyone in a popular hindi song

Chapter 3.

[ineffable-opinions]

Little Hearts - Coming Out, Coming Home

[updated | latest version] Indian Queer Media: Little Hearts | Kaathal the Core | Gaami | Mumbai Police |

This movie is now available on YouTube.

സമർപ്പണം - ക്വീർ മലയാളികൾക്ക്.

This week saw a lot of very interesting discussion about Indian queer media (compilation by @starryalpacasstuff). It coinciding with 13th edition of Kerala Queer Pride 2024 is so serendipitous.

I had drafted this Little Hearts (2024) appreciation post with the aim to finalize it before Kollavarsham New Year but did not get around to doing so. I wanted to take part in the current conversation. So, I am posting it now. I intent to discuss Indian BL: Sting of Lavender and Arotpa Pirang (The Hidden Tears) as well as movies like Kaathal – The Core, Moothon and Ardhanaari (2012) in the future.

Little Hearts (2024) is a Malayalam-language comedy movie available for streaming on Amazon Prime. (CW: heterosexism; PSA: Hema Committee Report) It's not a surprisingly impressive movie by any measure but I had a very nice time watching it. It was one of the best comedies of this year for me. And it tackles coming out in an interesting manner.

contains spoilers

Plot

(names might be spelled differently in the subtitles.)

The movie is set in a village in a high-range region of Kerala. We follow the main character Sibi through his journey, navigating 3 different relationships and their implication on his beloved people. The movie is pretty straightforward in its approach. At the outset, we are introduced to the romantic relationship – the one between Sibi’s father, Baby, and Baby’s childhood sweetheart, Cecily who was deserted by her husband Joey. She has a teenage daughter who doesn't look at their romance favorably. That’s the first hurdle. The other hurdle to their relationship is Cecily’s brother Papan and his feud with Baby. The feud and Sibi’s involvement make for some really fun moments throughout the movie.

The next romantic relationship involves Sibi and his feudal landlord’s daughter. Sibi and his father work in the cardamom estate owned by Johnson. Sibi’s family and Johnson’s basically have a very good relationship. Sibi grew up with Johnson’s kids, calls Johnson "papa" and Anitha (Johnson’s wife) "mummy", and spends a considerable amount of time at their house. Their families are practically one as seen from them breaking bread together on Maundy Thursday – an intimate tradition for those Nasrani folk.

However, there is clear class disparity. Sibi lives in a much smaller house and when dismissed from work, the class difference only becomes clearer.

What gets things moving is Shosha rejecting a proposal for an arranged marriage by lying that she is in a relationship with Sibi.

Sibi, clearly demiromantic, is surprised initially when she starts wooing him but eventually he falls for her. This branded pair’s romance didn’t work as well as it did in RDX (2023) but at least this time around they got their happy ending (a rarity in Malayalam romances).

The queer sub-plot arrives when Johnson’s firstborn, Sharon, returns home after a long while. While his parents prepare to arrange his marriage, Sharon confides in Sibi that he's actually getting married next month to his foreigner partner. The only thing Sibi enquires about is if Sharon’s partner belongs to the same community as himself (Catholic). When he gives a positive reply, Sibi asks him to invite his partner over so that Sibi can present the news to Johnson and Anitha on Sharon’s behalf. At the airport, Sharon welcomes his boyfriend Nathan and Sibi is shocked.

Agitated, Sibi is rude towards Sharon initially. However, he agrees to take Nathan and Sharon to visit tourist spots in exchange for Sharon meeting the woman his parents are trying to arrange his wedding with. During their excursion, Sibi warms up to their relationship while watching them interact. He also puts in effort to learn about queer people.

As promised Sharon meets the girl and rejects her respectfully. Nathan grows uneasy as Sharon drags his feet. Their relationship strains. Sharon’s mom notices but isn’t sure about what’s going on. Sibi’s efforts to talk to Johnson are unsuccessful. Hopeless, Sharon asks Nathan to leave by himself as he needs more time. Nathan asks Sibi to take care of Sharon and returns.

Anitha learns from Sibi about Nathan’s relationship with Sharon and, from her Johnson. Unable to process this information, Johnson consults Baby. Drunk out of his wits, Baby not only scolds Johnson for not accepting Sharon but also reveals the love affair between Sibi and Shosha. They fight and Johnson hits Sibi and forbids both son and dad from entering either his house or his land. Moreover, Sibi and Shosha’s relationship takes a turn for the worse as their stubborn attitudes worsen minor conflicts between them. 

Right when Sibi with the vicar’s intervention gets Cecily’s daughter's approval for their parent’s relationship, Joey appears. Turns out Joey held a grudge against his brother-in-law, Papan, who had hurt and humiliated him. Joey exacts revenge by whipping and stabbing Papan during the Way of Cross performance on Good Friday. Finally divorced, Cecily can finally move on and marry Baby.

While Shosha tries to be the bridge between her father and her brother, she fails to do so for her relationship with Sibi. Sharon calls her out. The movie ends with Baby and Sibi getting married and Sharon and Nathan joining them on a video call after the ceremony.

Analysis

The predominant narrative of “coming out” is built on a particular kind of queer experience and geography, which is usually from the standpoint of white, middle-class, urban U.S. citizenship.

Shuzhen Huang & Daniel C. Brouwer (2018) Coming out, coming home, coming with: Models of queer sexuality in contemporary China

Nathan is an upper-class, white, Christian man with an accepting family emblematic of the Western take on queerness we all are familiar with. Sharon, on the other hand, is from this little agricultural village in Kerala where everyone knows everyone else and queerness does not get accepted and protected the way it does in the West. That’s why he had migrated. That’s why he did not visit more often. His desires are mediated by his circumstances. Leaving home is a decision that a lot of queer people living in villages like his adopt, whether it is to urban regions within the nation or abroad. Queer migration is a very common phenomenon in India and I hope to discuss it further in relation to other movies such as Moothon and Sancharam.

Migration is expected to offer queer individuals distance from the daily pressures of heteronormativity and cis-heteropatriarchy. It can secure them better employment opportunities, higher incomes, and improved standard of living and savings that would help them support themselves (and their parents) in their old age in the absence of offspring and substantial social security benefits. It can also provide them with relative anonymity to explore their sexuality, improved chances of finding partners, friends, and other queer folk in general whom they can support and be supported by.

Sharon choosing to introduce Nathan to his family through Sibi might come off as strange, but that’s very much not the case. Arranged marriages are the norm in Kerala. Even if your marriage is not arranged via match-makers (and increasingly via dedicated websites), it is not unusual for the couple to get their parents to ‘arrange’ their love marriage on their behalf. Marriages are grand affairs, with creation and merging of families, transfer of different sorts of wealth and capital, a well-mediated social project where familism rather than individualism dominates, with relatives and neighbors having a say in everything.  

Shane Nigam, the actor who played Sibi, has other movies in which he does the exact same role for heterosexual couples. In RDX, he is tasked with presenting his brother’s relationship with his future sister-in-law to his father and getting his father’s approval.

In Kumbalangi Nights, Shane's character has to convince his brother to bring up the matter of his marriage with his girlfriend’s brother-in-law in the absence of their parents.

While cis-heterosexual pairings enjoy better acceptance at some level compared to others, that acceptance is conditional. India more broadly and Kerala specifically has a fairly long-standing tradition of “marrying” within one’s caste and creed. (There were other not-exactly conjugal ties in Kerala like sambandam that were inter-caste.) Exogamy is strongly discouraged and punished through deprivation of essential social capital and in extreme cases through honor killings. It is in this context that Sibi asks Sharon if the one Sharon is going to marry belongs to their community – they are Nasrani Catholics. When Sharon affirms that although his partner is a foreigner but catholic, Sibi is relieved (in a very comphet way which he regrets soon enough).

Sibi, in a heterosexist outburst, uses “kundan” intending to hurt Sharon. Sibi is a stand-in for most Malayali folk whose understanding of queerness, is rooted in local forms of expression of sexuality. While married folk are expected to fall in love and stay faithful and carry on the bloodline, that is only the intention for and not the basis of marriages. Sexuality, especially non-heterosexuality, leading to marriages and households is a fairly unusual concept. Please keep in mind that even the idea of a household being one that had its basis in marriage is fairly new. Till the 20th century, a normal Nair (a community in Kerala) household (tharavaadu) meant sisters and brothers living with the sisters' children, and these children's fathers would continue to live with their own sisters.

Sexuality that made one “kundan” lie outside the conjugal sphere if not for marriage equality activism and movements seeking legalization of non-monogamous kinship arrangements. I have discussed this form of male-male sexuality, the term kundan and its connection with BL, in my post on Kubi and Gohatto.

Sibi struggles with the task Sharon entrusted him with. He has to learn about queer people (he is seen browsing the internet and watching videos to learn), understand the couple he is expected to introduce, and present it in a manner that would not spook Sharon’s parents (for example, the conversation about food preferences) and would instead make them root for their son. Sibi’s hesitation costs the couple time and drives a wedge between them that widens enough to tear their relationship apart.

Sharon’s mother is the first one to learn of his relationship with Nathan. She responds in a way that would be best explained by the Chinese phrase “rugui” (entering the closet) which refers to the initial and depressive stage [many Asian] parents enter upon learning about their child’s queerness. It is a painful psychological state consisting of shock, anger, grief, disbelief, and self-blame. These parents then must work their way back to a balanced state.

It is clear that she was suspecting and that is why she had insisted on speaking to Sibi at the church. After learning the truth, she chooses to walk back home and breaks down while hugging her son, upon finally realizing the pain he has been in all this time and the reason behind the pain.

Sharon’s father learns the truth from his wife. The second stage of his reaction is what the Chinese call “jiating chugui” (familial coming-out) wherein a parent seeks moral support from someone he trusts. However, his decision to confide in Baby backfires.

Drunk out of his wits, Baby reprimands Johnson for hesitating to accept his son. Interestingly, Baby uses a lot of slang popular on the internet among Malayali folk online including those relating to political correctness and progressive thinking. Baby is disingenuous since he is not free from heterosexist bias himself. However, learning that Baby and Sibi have been keeping a bunch of secrets from him breaks Johnson who was already emotionally vulnerable. He lashes out at Baby and Sibi as well as his son, whom he prevents from leaving the country by withholding his passport.

Shosha, Sharon’s sister is upset with Sibi for hiding about Sharon’s relationship. However, she is able to offer the good counsel that Johnson had fruitlessly sought in Baby. Sharon and Johnson renew their bond over alcohol. Finally, at peace, Sharon is able to set Shosha straight too.  

There has been criticism that the movie failed to do justice to the queer theme by focusing uneven amounts of energy on heterosexual couples. But, I think Little Hearts did a good job of upsetting the conventional idea that heterosexual relationships are automatically normative and easily accepted. Even with heterosexual relationships being intra-caste, class is a powerful enough divide to try and force couples apart through familial/societal disapproval (from Papan against Baby and Johnson against Sibi). Consider the fact that Kerala is yet to have an on-screen inter-caste heterosexual couple have their happy ending. By calling into question what can be considered queer in Malayali society, the movie manages to critically examine the emergent theme of Christian Nasrani familialism.

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notes:

Hema Committee report - Wikipedia

Baburaj, the actor who played Baby, is one of the post-report accused.

2. Shine Tom Chacko previously played a queer character in the 2022 action thriller Bheeshma Parvam.