Onir reveals first look of LGBTQ short film Tumhari Khushboo

MUMBAI: National Award-winning filmmaker Onir has unveiled the first look of his upcoming Hindi short film Tumhari Khushboo, offering a gentle yet stirring glimpse into a story told as much through silence as through emotion.

Starring Barun Sobti and Shashi Bhushan, the film marks a rare and meaningful moment in Indian cinema. Bhushan, a visually impaired actor, portrays a queer character, bringing both authenticity and nuance to the narrative. Written by Ravi Asrani and produced by Impulse Mumbai, the film blends intimacy with purpose, rooted in the collective’s long-standing work around sexual wellness, mental health, substance use, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy.

Set against the familiar hum of Mumbai, Tumhari Khushboo follows Sunil, a visually impaired masseur, and Kamran, a sports teacher who becomes his client. The newly revealed poster hints at a quiet closeness between the two, while suggesting unresolved memories that may complicate their growing bond.

Speaking about the project, Onir shared that the film holds a deeply personal place in his journey. He described it as his first attempt at bringing together queerness and disability on screen, adding that the story speaks about safer sexual wellness, empathy, and the universality of love, desire and vulnerability.

He also praised the cast, noting that Shashi Bhushan’s talent as both an actor and musician naturally shaped the film during workshops, while Barun Sobti brings emotional depth to Kamran, a man navigating affection alongside his own internal biases.

Echoing the sentiment, Impulse India programme manager Bismaya Kumar Raulo, said the film reflects the organisation’s core values of inclusion and affirmation. He described it as a quiet reminder that queer lives exist across many intersections, and that honest storytelling can foster a more compassionate society.

Impulse Mumbai team member Mihir Maher added that the film celebrates every form of love with sincerity, championing acceptance, responsibility and empathy without preaching.

Without giving too much away, the first look sets the tone for a reflective film that explores love, boundaries and self-discovery with understated grace. More details about Tumhari Khushboo are expected to be announced soon.