Chapter 6: “Rockets” Without Destination: Gender Sustainability and Identity Challenges in Indian Sports Explored Through Rashmi Rocket

In sports, the questions of gender identity and gender sustainability become much more complex than they are in society. This chapter seeks to critically evaluate the representation of the Indian sports scene in film while also exploring real-world instances where the concept of “other” is present in the field. The Bollywood movie Rashmi Rocket (2021), directed by Akarsh Khurana, is an undertaking to expose the complexity of gender identity in sports in particular and in society in general. While sports can promote gender sustainability, the issue of gender identity in sports may seem intrusive on the whole. Apart from this, the misuse of gender identity in sports can lead to both advantages for some and disadvantages for others, resulting in issues such as transphobia and homophobia. Further, these issues take turns to bring trans-activist phobia that is rampant not only in India but also in the global sports scene. As media, particularly sports media, plays a significant role in shaping society, it can influence both positive and negative changes, given the strong impact of sport on public perception. Through a critical evaluation of media representations, this study explores the challenges faced by individuals in sports. The study revaluates the roles of sporting organizations and policymakers in improving the situation and providing support for the sportspersons who have to suffer consequences associated with the layered difficulties of gender identity. Thus, the study also aims to uplift gender sustainability within a more comprehensive framework.