Malini Jeevarathnam is an Indian filmmaker, actor, and queer activist from Tamil Nadu, known for their impactful work in LGBTQ+ cinema and storytelling. With a career spanning film, web series, and social activism, Malini has become a prominent voice for queer representation in Indian media.
Malini Jeevarathnam Biography
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Malini Jeevarathnam |
| Birthplace | Paramakudi, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Filmmaker, Actor, LGBTQ+ Activist |
| Years Active | 2014–present |
| Known For | Ladies and Gentlewomen (2017), Why So Straight? (2022) |
| Education | Master’s in Media Arts, Loyola College, Chennai |
| Notable Works (Director) | Ladies and Gentlewomen (2017), Why So Straight? (2022) |
| Notable Works (Actor) | Inspector Rishi (2024), Love And Let Love (2024) |
| Social Media | |
| Activism | LGBTQ+ advocacy, founder of Veytikaari Productions |
| Gender Identity | Non-binary / Gender fluid |
Early Life & Education
- Full Name: Malini Jeevarathnam
- Birthplace: Paramakudi, Tamil Nadu, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Education: Master’s in Media Arts from Loyola College, Chennai
Malini began their journey assisting renowned filmmaker Pa. Ranjith on films like Madras (2014) and Aruvi (2016), which helped shape their understanding of socially conscious cinema.
Career Journey
Filmmaking & Directorial Work
Malini Jeevarathnam is known for creating stories that center around queer experiences:
- Ladies and Gentlewomen (2017) – A Tamil documentary exploring love, life, and suicide among lesbians, produced by Pa. Ranjith.
- Why So Straight? (2022) – A short film portraying the life of a queer artist, focusing on love, acceptance, and identity.
- Kaadhal Embadhu Podhu Udamai (2024) – Script consultant for this film about lesbian relationships.
Acting Career
Malini has also appeared in Tamil web series and films:
- Inspector Rishi (2024) – Portrayed Chithra
- Love And Let Love (2024) – Featured in a non-dialogue role
Activism & Advocacy
Malini identifies as gender fluid and non-binary and has been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in India. They have participated in numerous panel discussions, protests, and campaigns to raise awareness about queer issues.
They also founded Veytikaari Productions, a platform dedicated to queer storytelling in Indian cinema.
Bigg Boss Tamil 9
Malini Jeevarathnam is a confirmed contestant in Bigg Boss Tamil Season 9, which premiered on October 5, 2025, on Vijay TV. Hosted by Vijay Sethupathi, this season features 19 contestants from diverse backgrounds.
Social Media Profiles
| Platform | Handle / Link | Details |
|---|---|---|
| @malini_jeevarathinam | Shares updates on projects, activism, and personal insights | |
| YouTube | Search “Malini Jeevarathnam” | Interviews, talks, and short film clips |
Filmography
| Role | Project | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Director | Ladies and Gentlewomen | 2017 | Documentary on lesbian life & challenges |
| Director | Why So Straight? | 2022 | Short film on queer identity |
| Script Consultant | Kaadhal Embadhu Podhu Udamai | 2024 | Focused on lesbian relationships |
| Actor | Inspector Rishi | 2024 | Played Chithra |
| Actor | Love And Let Love | 2024 | Non-dialogue role |
Interesting Facts About Malini Jeevarathnam
- Started career assisting Pa. Ranjith in films like Madras and Aruvi.
- Identifies as non-binary and gender fluid, advocating for queer rights.
- Founder of Veytikaari Productions, promoting LGBTQ+ cinema.
- Known for creating thought-provoking and socially relevant content.
FAQs About Malini Jeevarathnam
Q1. Who is Malini Jeevarathnam?
A filmmaker, actor, and queer activist from Tamil Nadu, known for their impactful work in LGBTQ+ cinema.
Q2. What are some of their notable films?
Ladies and Gentlewomen (2017) and Why So Straight? (2022).
Q3. Are they active on social media?
Yes, Instagram is their main platform.
Q4. What is Veytikaari Productions?
A production platform founded by Malini to promote queer storytelling in Indian cinema.
Conclusion
Malini Jeevarathnam is a trailblazer in Tamil and Indian cinema, combining artistry and activism to amplify queer voices. Through filmmaking, acting, and social advocacy, they continue to inspire a new generation of storytellers and change-makers.
