Breaking Barriers: LGBTQ+ Women in India and the Power of Sisterhood

By Srijani Rupsha Mitra

When thinking about the ultimate power of women, especially on the occasion of Women’s History Month, I can’t help but ponder the power derived from the unrelenting perseverance and indomitable spirits of LGBTQ+ women. The power born out of resilience from fighting against years of suppression and the dauntless courage to be and to thrive amidst chaos. This is the story of LGBTQ+ women in India—a community that has navigated the prejudices around gender norms, societal expectations, and norms as well as stereotypes to claim their rightful place in this stage of the world. This is a story to reiterate about dual marginalization, to awaken bonds of sisterhood, and to stir people to know of a movement that refuses to be curbed. It’s a story that needs to be narrated out loud to uphold the beauty of inclusivity and diversity. 

Eons of Suppression: From the Delhi Sultanate to Modern-Day India

The struggles of LGBTQ+ women in India aren’t new. They’re as old as the Indian history books themselves. Take the Delhi Sultanate era of India. While historical records often gloss over the lives of queer women, we know that societal norms have long been stringent and punishing those who dared to defy them. Women, especially those who didn’t conform to heteronormative ideals, were pushed to the margins, their identities eradicated or rebuilt to fit into a patriarchal framework. They were often subjected to inhuman torture like incarcerations within big cages of animals or sold for money and slave work as punishment for their very own sexualities! Such was the stifling of inalienable human rights that LGBTQ+ women in the subcontinent suffered from, since times immemorial.

Fast forward to contemporary India, it’s startling and frightening as well, that the picture isn’t entirely different. LGBTQ+ women face what’s termed as dual marginalization—they’re discriminated against for being “women” in a patriarchal society and also for being queer in a conservative culture. Many Indian families still lack a basic understanding of diverse sexualities, leading to several misunderstandings, rejection, and even physical violence. This leads to extremely  unhealthy family dynamics. It also engenders deterioration of mental health among LGBTQ+ girls who want to come out and proclaim their identities. Indian parents often feel gender roles are set in stone. Coming from such patriarchal, collectivist societies, LGBTQ+ girls find it impossible to divulge their identities and are often forced into heteronormative marriages. Hence, coming out often feels like walking a tightrope, with the fear of losing your family, your community, and your security and belonging. 

But here’s something to address: LGBTQ+ women in India aren’t just surviving—they’re actually thriving. And they’re doing it together.

The writer, Srijani Rupsha Mitra

Sisterhood and Togetherness: The Intersection of Feminist and LGBTQ+ Movements

One of the most beautiful aspects of the LGBTQ+ movement in India is its wonderful intersectionality. Feminist and queer movements have long been intertwined, fighting for the same core values: equality, liberty, dignity, and the right to exist without unnecessary, baseless fear. LGBTQ+ women have been at the forefront of this fight, rallying together to demand legal rights and social change.

The colonial-era law in India, which criminalized same-sex relationships, was a symbol of oppression for the LGBTQ+ community. Its repeal in 2018 was a landmark triumph in contemporary Indian society and LGBTQ+ women played a crucial role in making it happen. They organized myriad protests, shared their stories, and refused to back down until justice was served. Colleges and universities saw crowds gathering in front of the buildings, as LGBTQ+ women and allies paraded with rainbow-hued flags.

But the fight didn’t stop there. LGBTQ+ women have also been redefining traditions to make them more inclusive. Seema Anand, a storyteller and mythologist who has been a part of organizing Sindur Khela rituals during Durga Puja, includes women of all sexualities in this grand, festive ritual. Traditionally, this ritual was reserved for married heterosexual women, but Anand’s initiative is a very powerful reminder that love and identity come in many different forms. It might seem small but it is a significant step towards creating a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are. 

The Rise of Queer Voices: Magazines, Media, and Movements

The revolution isn’t just happening on the streets of India —it’s happening in print and online too. Magazines like Gaysi and Queerbeat are giving LGBTQ+ women an excellent platform to share their stories, pitch their ideas, and express their creativity to connect with others who understand their struggles. These publications are more than just magazines; they’re lifelines for queer youth who might feel isolated or misunderstood otherwise.

And let’s not be oblivious to the activists who are leading the movement. Figures like Amrita Nandi, a transgender rights activist, are living proof that the LGBTQ+ movement in India is vibrant, unstoppable, and full of emotions and heart. Nandi’s work empowers transgender women, ensuring they can access basic education, healthcare, and employment. Her activism is a reminder that the fight for equality isn’t just about changing the laws—it’s about changing entire lives.

A  Heartfelt Tribute to Inclusivity and Diversity

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s take a moment to revere the LGBTQ+ women who have paved the way for a more inclusive future. Their struggles, victories, and unshakable zest are a testament to the power of resilience and community.

This isn’t just a movement—it’s a revolution. And it’s one that’s happening right here, right now, in India. From the streets of Delhi to the pages of Queerbeat, LGBTQ+ women are making their voices heard, their presence felt, and their willpower known. They’re recreating the rules, transcending the barriers, and building a world where everyone, regardless of their gender or sexuality, can thrive in peace.

So here’s a tribute to the LGBTQ+ women of India—past, present, and future. All of their stories, struggles and fights are ours as we together work towards building a future that is bright, inclusive and radiant. 

– Srijani Rupsha Mitra is a writer based in India with works published in various magazines. She wishes to research in English Literature. Her website is srupshapoetry.vercel.app/