This Gujarati Gay Indie Film Is Small In Scale But Big At Heart: Katlaa Curry

Priyanka Gangwani and Rangnath Gopalrathnam in Katlaa Curry. Photo: Supplied

Some films don’t need a big budget or star power to make an impact—they need honesty. Katlaa Curry is one of those few indie films that feels small in scale but big at heart.

Set in a quiet Gujarati riverbank village, the story of Raaymal, a fisherman living a simple, somewhat restricted life, unfolds as he saves Ratan from drifting in the river, and whose tender bond with him grows into something more profound. Raaymal trains him with survival skills, and Ratan becomes a catharsis for his hidden and long-suppressed desires. 

What makes the film refreshing is how it tackles two sensitive topics subtly: the cultural stereotype that Gujaratis don’t eat fish, and the more profound, often unspoken stigma around same-sex love.

Instead of treating these as shock factors, the film approaches them with care, warmth, and respect—making the story feel both daring and deeply human.

Kumati, Raaymal’s wife, adds another layer to the narrative. Her presence could have easily turned the story into a melodrama. Still, the director chooses a more thoughtful path, showing the struggles and emotions of all three characters with balance and maturity.

Katlaa Curry: Subtle And Genuine

Nothing feels forced; the emotions come through in subtle gestures and silences, making the relationships feel genuine and lived in. And while the production team was tiny—less than ten people the film eventually belongs to Director Rohit Prajapati, who is at the helm of this beautiful film.

The performances by Priyanka Gangwani and Rangnath Gopalrathnam really shine here; they embrace Raaymal and Ratan with utmost sincerity, making us root for their love. While their love-making scenes are sensuously portrayed, a special shout-out goes to Kinnary Pankti Panchal, who plays the restrained Kumati.

The camera work, particularly Sabyasaachi Bhattacharya’s lingering shots of the river and the village, adds a calming, almost poetic backdrop to the unfolding drama, complemented by a good music score by Birju Kantharia.  

Love Is Beautiful

Kaatla Curry leaves a lasting mark. It’s a moving reminder that love, in all its forms, is about connection, courage, and empathy.

At a time when cinema often chases spectacle, this little film proves that sincerity can be just as powerful. The film could have benefited from more insight into the narrative, but for now, we are satisfied with its presentation. 

Released in a limited capacity online, the film may not be available in cinema houses as it deserves, but it certainly deserves your attention. Do watch it for a very nominal charge on www.watchmyfilm.com/movie/kaatla-curry.