Hollywood actor Sir Ian McKellen and Sonam Kapoor inaugurate the Kashish Film Festival in Mumbai, May 25. (Santosh Hirlekar | PTI)

Sonam Kapoor feels irrespective of a person’s sexual orientation, they have the right to be themselves. (@Siliconeer, #Siliconeer, #Bollywood, #SonamKapoor, #LGBTRights, #IanMckellen)

Recently, British actor Ian McKellen expressed that India needs to grow up and do away with section 377 of IPC, which criminalizes homosexuality.

When asked about her take on this, Sonam told reporters, “I absolutely agree with him. It’s a basic human right. It’s not about lesbian, gay, transsexual, it’s about being able to be what you want to be and being somebody who is just themselves.”

The actress was speaking at the inauguration of seventh Kashish Mumbai International Queer Film Festival.

The “Prem Ratan Dhan Payo” actress said she immediately agreed to come at the event as she is a “strong supporter” of basic human rights.

Sonam Kapoor tries some dance moves at the Kashish Film Festival in Mumbai, May 25. (Santosh Hirlekar | PTI)
Sonam Kapoor tries some dance moves at the Kashish Film Festival in Mumbai, May 25. (Santosh Hirlekar | PTI)

“Last year, I was trying to make it but I was traveling.

This year I immediately said yes to coming here. I am a strong supporter of basic human rights, forget LGBT rights. I think that’s what this is,” she said.

Sonam feels even the censor board is moving in the right direction and says she is an optimist who believes things will change.

“The very fact that they gave ‘Neerja’ a U certificate says that they are moving in the correct direction. Hopefully things are going to change. I am an optimistic human being … I believe in humanity and the fact that people are good and conditions and choices make them not so great,” she said.

Ian, who was also present at the event, said he has come to India to support those who want to “get rid” of IPC section 377.

“I’ve come to Mumbai to celebrate Shakespeare and to celebrate the connection between the United Kingdom and your country. I have also come to support those who want to get rid of section 377.”