While the Indian queer community prides itself on inclusivity, it can sometimes fall into the trap of stereotyping its own members. Here are a few assumptions I’ve come across that don’t sit right with me.
Growing up, the handful of queer media that I had access to often portrayed queer events as something close to enlightenment. It became a magical space where our confused, scared and conflicted protagonist experiences the ultimate euphoria of being unapologetically queer. The message was simple: you gotta do it once to step into the light. So, after 19 years in the closet followed by two years of lockdown, I attended my first queer party around this time of the month. And all it took me was one lap around the venue to realise: India’s queer scene is like an American high school teen drama. If you’re lost, trust me, I have my reasons why I feel that.
Like a new student walking down the hallway, I could see cliques gathered in every corner, people nervously introducing themselves, crushes forming out of thin air, and everyone trying their best to be their most authentic selves. For a while, the adrenaline rush made me feel liberated from chains that had held me down for years. But soon, the rose-coloured glasses came off, and I realised an uncomfortable truth. While we often speak about society’s stereotypes, we don’t talk enough about the assumptions and scrutiny that exist within the community itself.
