Considered to be the ultimate land of cultures, traditions and values, it has always been difficult for couples to share their relationships publicly. Aside from homosexual partners, straight couples also seek a hideout to spend some time alone, unless they’re married to each other. Here in India, people seldom get chances to explore themselves, be it homosexuality or even a straight relationship. This has proven to be one of the major factors that retained the question of confused sexuality in some people’s minds.
Usually, an individual realizes or discovers their sexual preferences in their early 20’s. So did I when I was 19. This is also the time when we step out from our academic institutes into the actual world. Many people belonging to the LGBT community might begin to understand their sexual mould, but they tend to suppress and ignore it under the belief of primitive moral values; or more so by the fear of rejection and abandonment from the society.
Once discovered as belonging to the LGBT community, the person might be put behind the bars for a day or two, under section 377 of Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Although the concept of LGBT hasn’t been legalized in India yet, it hasn’t been hard for me to live within the society. There are a few guardians and acquaintances who understand the idea of homosexuality, not as a trend, but as a lifestyle. The people with whom I discuss and seek advice from, pertaining to this lifestyle, are handful but very supportive and genuine with reasoning. I was isolated by my friends when I told them what I had discovered about myself. But soon enough, I was out in the world with some rational thinkers around me.
The LGBT issue has been gaining popularity in India lately. Various NGOs and social welfare organizations have come forward to spread awareness about the community which wasn’t considered a part of the society few years ago.
Also, the government has taken a step forward to encourage the acceptance by promoting a transgender to be a school principal in West Bengal; awarding another transgender in South India for her social welfare activities. ‘Saathi’ is another such organization founded by a bunch of teenagers helping youths to voice their ideas and experiences on the LGBT community.
Homosexuality exists in every being, why are we the only beings to monitor over it? By gradual widespread of the concepts of homosexuality, hopefully someday, India would be a free country to love and be accepted. Cheers to the youths who strive for our rights!
