Shivadwaj, who made a humble beginning in Sandalwood a few years ago, is aiming high. He proved his mettle by winning the national award for his Tulu film 'Gaggara' recently. Now, he is all set to come out with a film that focuses on sexual minorities.
If everything goes as per plan, the film 'Naanu Avalaadaaga' (When I became a woman) will mount the sets next month. “I want to highlight not only the problems of sexual minorities but also showcase their good nature in this film,” says Shivadwaj. “Transgenders are not depicted well in films. They are seen in song sequences that make fun of them,” laments Shivadwaj.
Shivadwaj gathered a lot of information about transgenders before preparing the script for this film. “I used to spend time at traffic signals in the city where transgenders beg for alms. There are occasions where I offered them money to know them better,” said Shivadwaj.
He has already assigned actress Bhavana to play a key role in this film and is now in talks with Prakash Raj. “I had discussions with Raj. He seems extremely interested to act in this film, but is yet to take a final decision,” he said.
According to him, the story revolves around a couple. While the wife is a strong-willed lady, the husband is a miser. The husband incurs a huge loss in a business venture. He comes to know that transgenders earn money without much investment. So he starts begging at traffic signals disguised as a transgender, only to the regret of his wife, who unexpectedly finds him begging.
Meanwhile, the transgenders realise the truth about him. But he explains to them about his situation. While his wife hates him, the transgenders accept him. “This film emphasises the need to bring sexual minorities to the mainstream society. It shows that they too need the space to lead a dignified life,” he explains.
The shooting of 'Naanu Avalaadaaga' will be held at selected traffic signals in Bangalore, apart from some scenic locations in Theerthahalli. Shivadwaj hopes to screen the film at national and international film festivals. Former minister Shobha Karandlaje is expected to sound the clap board during its muhurat function next month. “Many organisations that work for sexual minorities have come forward to support me in my endeavour,” he says.