Our Protagonist

Here's a link to a newspaper article on BBT: http://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/men-in-saris-mumbais-new-lavani-dancers

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZPKODwKulU 

ANIL HANKARE:

Our protagonist is the founder and choreographer of BBT. A fascinating character, 47 years old, who chooses to dress up as a female to dance Lavani. Hankare learned to do various dance forms like: Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, Ballet, and Kathakali for about ten years. After getting positive responses from his performances, Hankare continued to choreograph for BBT. Starting off, Hankare received a lot of negativity from society for cross dressing for an art form. Eventually, Hankare has managed to gain respect and build a reputation for himself, and is considered to be one of the domineering forces of Lavani in Mumbai. His performances have gotten media coverage now. Hankare has also been featured in prominent television shows like 'Jhalak Dikhlaja,' and 'Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi.'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofJy3mcYxyU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLXoL2iIsUk

Despite questions from society as well as his family, Hankare has come to terms with himself, not just as a man, or dressing as a woman, but rather as a human being. The film celebrates gender, showcasing a man who dresses and dances as beautifully as a woman. Through the eyes of Hankare, we learn to see the world as is, and learn to respect him as he is, a man who likes to dress up as a woman for the passion of dance. 

The film had to be about him! We began filming on Dec. 15, going to various locations, from stage performances, the homes of our protagonists, and more. We are currently at our post-production stage, of editing and collecting sponsors. This is where we need the help...