LGBTQ+ people have existed for as long as humanity itself. However, due to the fear of unacceptance of society, the vast majority of them keep their sexual orientation hidden from everyone. But it shouldn't be like that. Nobody should be discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender identity as the world belongs to everyone equally.
In honour of Pride Month, take a look at some of the notable LGBTQ+ figures from India who are making a difference for the better.
View this post on Instagram
India's fastest woman runner Dutee Chand, who holds the 100m women's national record, is also the country's first and only openly gay athlete. She came out as lesbian in 2019, which drew a lot of attention. Many people sent her supportive messages, while others also trolled her. This, however, did not deter the young achiever. She currently holds the 100m national record in the women's category.
"I have always believed that everyone should have the freedom to love. There is no greater emotion than love and it should not be denied. The Supreme Court of India has also struck down the old law. I believe nobody has the right to judge me as an athlete because of my decision to be with who I want. It is a personal decision, which should be respected. I will continue to strive to win medals for India at international meets,” Dutee told the Indian Express.
Also watch this video
View this post on Instagram
Menaka Guruswamy And Arundhati Katju are two lawyers who played a pivotal role in abolishing Section 377, an act that criminalised homosexuality. Ten months after helping decriminalize homosexuality, they came out as the lesbian couple that had the social media abuzz with excitement. India saw a new ray of hope for the LGBTQIA+ community because of these leading ladies.
View this post on Instagram
Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil is India's first openly gay royal who came out at the age of 41 during an interview in 2006. What followed, though, was a terrible path. He ended up facing a lot of backlash from society.
After coming out, he had to face death threats, publicly disowned by family and pushed into conversion therapy. But none of this could deter him.
He eventually got married to his husband in 2013. He also founded the Lakshya Trust to improve the rights of LGBTQIA+ people, and he keeps doing a lot of things for the community. Today, he is at the forefront of the fight to outlaw conversion therapy.
Don't miss: From Greysexual To Demiboy, Here Are Some LGBTQ+ Terms To Update Your Vocabulary
View this post on Instagram
Dr. Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju is Karnataka’s first trans-woman doctor. Her journey to this point, however, was littered with stumbling blocks. Trinetra was born as Angad Gummaraju, although she never saw herself as a boy from an early age.
After getting admission at a private medical college she underwent GCS and documented her journey on Instagram and YouTube. However, there was a lot of trolling and hate comments that followed.
Today, Trinetra has a massive following on social media and she keeps sharing posts that helps people understand the importance of issues such as gender, sexuality, queerphobia, bullying, mental health, and feminism. She also guides trans people, shares insecurities, and also calls out trolls like a queen.
Don't miss: This Pride Month, Check Out These LGBTQIA+ Creators On Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Harish Iyer is one of the most influential gay man and LGBTQ+ activist who appeared in an episode of Aamir Khan's talk show Satyamev Jayate in 2012, where he talked about his child sexual abuse.
Harish Iyer first came out as gay to his mom and she was very angry, but she eventually accepted him. In 2015, she even placed a matrimonial ad for her gay son, but it lead to a heated firestorm on social media. Yet nothing could stop Harish from owning his identity.
In 2019, Harish became India's first and only openly gay politician when he joined the Congress party.
I hope you found this story interesting. Share your thoughts with us by commenting on our Facebook page.
For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi!
Our aim is to provide accurate, safe and expert verified information through our articles and social media handles. The remedies, advice and tips mentioned here are for general information only. Please consult your expert before trying any kind of health, beauty, life hacks or astrology related tips. For any feedback or complaint, contact us at compliant_gro@jagrannewmedia.com.