Malini Jeevarathnam

Paramakudi, Tamil Nadu

Biography

Malini Jeevarathnam is an Indian documentary filmmaker, actor, and queer activist from Tamil Nadu. Known for their work on LGBTQ+ issues, they have created films and short projects that explore queerness, identity, and gender fluidity. Malini is celebrated for their sensitive storytelling and commitment to social activism, making them a significant voice in contemporary Indian independent cinema. Early Life & Education Malini Jeevarathnam was born in Paramakudi, Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu. They pursued a Master’s in Media Arts from Loyola College, Chennai. Early in their career, Malini assisted renowned directors Pa. Ranjith on Madras and Arun Prabu Purushothaman on Aruvi (2016). These experiences shaped their filmmaking approach and inspired them to explore queer narratives, while also encouraging them to come out as a lesbian, a decision that influenced both their personal and professional journey. Career & Achievements Malini Jeevarathnam started by making short films and documentaries focusing on queer issues. Their directorial debut, Ladies and Gentlewomen (2017), explored love, life, and suicide among lesbians. The documentary received global recognition, winning Best Documentary at the Norway Tamil Film Festival and earning nominations at the Pune International Queer Film Festival, among others. They also directed Why So Straight? (2022), highlighting the life of a queer artist, Ameya, showcasing hope, acceptance, and identity struggles. Production & Consulting Work In 2023, Malini launched their own production house, Veytikaari Productions, to create more inclusive content and support queer filmmakers. They also worked as a script consultant on Kaadhal Embadhu Podhu Udamai, a film addressing lesbian relationships, demonstrating their commitment to guiding authentic queer narratives in Tamil cinema. Acting Career Malini has also acted in films and web series. In 2024, they played Chithra in the Tamil web series Inspector Rishi and appeared in the short film Love And Let Love, which featured no dialogues. Their acting complements their filmmaking work, allowing them to bring nuanced performances to queer and socially relevant stories. Activism Malini Jeevarathnam is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. They identify as gender fluid and non-binary, using they/them pronouns. Beyond filmmaking, Malini has actively participated in protests, panels, and discussions about queer rights, representation, and inclusion. Their activism reflects their commitment to social change and the empowerment of marginalized communities through storytelling and public engagement.