“It is an achievement that a film like ‘Dostana’ is redefining what couple-hood means,” says Malini Dabbas, who works in the non-profit sector on issues of health, gender and sexuality. Vikram of Gay Bombay, a self-funded organisation, says ‘Dostana’ is an exception but not the rule. “One will always have to deal with stereotypes. It is the spirit in which ‘Dostana’ was done that is inspiring. Not only did it take up the subject but did it well. I do not expect Bollywood to do a ‘Brokeback Mountain’ but this comedy is not malicious,” says Vikram.

“Bollywood has to catch up with the prevailing discourses on alternate sexuality. They made a good start with Fire, and now ‘Dostana’,” says queer activist Lesley Esteves, who also believes that even though the film invited people to poke fun at stereotypes of gay men, it did so without offending many gay people. “I’m thrilled that Abhishek and John won the best couple, and the style with which the award was bestowed on them was even more exciting. I would love to see two women bag the award someday soon,” says Esteves.

One cannot assume that applause at an award function translates into a gay revolution— yet it is a small step in a homophobic society.