Anoop Soni, known for his roles in various television series and films, is now garnering attention for his involvement in the short film "Holy Curse." In an exclusive statement, Soni shed light on the film's core message, emphasizing its role in "spreading awareness about LGBTQ and…" issues surrounding gender identity, tradition, and self-discovery.

"Holy Curse," directed by Snigdha Kapoor, tells the story of 11-year-old Radha, who is visiting India with their family. During the visit, Radha grapples with their gender identity as their family subjects them to manipulative orthodox rituals, believing these will dispel an alleged ancestral curse affecting Radha's thoughts. The film explores Radha's journey as they navigate family expectations, self-discovery, and rigid beliefs, as their family tries to "fix" what they don't understand.

Soni plays the role of the traditionalist uncle in the film, evoking the fear and revulsion associated with the character. The cast also includes Mrunal Kashid as Radha, Adithi Kalkunte, Shardul Bhardwaj, and Prayrak Mehta.

Kapoor's films often explore gender, sexuality, and childhood, challenging societal norms. She was a NewFest New Voices Grant semi-finalist in 2023. "Holy Curse" premiered at the BFI London Film Festival and has since won several awards, including the Jury Award for Best Short Film at the Tasveer Film Festival and Best LGBTQ Short at Flickerfest.

Kapoor chose astrology and rituals for the backdrop because both form an integral part of Indian society. According to Forbes, the film challenges traditional gender expectations and offers a broader commentary on unacknowledged forms of conversion therapy in India.

The film has been selected for several film festivals, including the Cleveland International Film Festival, the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles, the Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia, and the Kashish Mumbai International Queer Film Festival.

"Holy Curse" delves into the challenges faced by individuals questioning their gender identity, particularly within the confines of family expectations and societal norms. The film portrays the denial of queerness as something abnormal, and Radha must figure out their own identity and impulses while inhabiting a gender-fluid space.

Kapoor reveals that it was tough for her to get funds for a film exploring gender identity, and the fact that it was based in India made it tougher. Her mother eventually funded the film after reading it.