October 2005

Dad, I Am A Gay!
Ankush Arora
(LACS Delhi 2005, Hindu College, ankusharora3@yahoo.com)

Movies like Kal Ho Na Ho, Girlfriend and Fire have depicted the physical aspect of a homosexual relationship. What about the emotionality which is the very essence of a relationship? Is homosexuality just about having sex or getting physically attracted with/towards the person of same sex? The dictionary defines a homosexual as the one who is ‘sexually’ attracted to the people of same sex. This whole notion of physical attraction towards the same sex has percolated down to the Indian psyche. I think its time the dictionary must redefine the word. Its time we must broaden our perspective towards homosexuality. Its time we must put ourselves in their shoes and see how difficult it is to survive when you are a gay or a lesbian.

In a student survey conducted by Hindu College’s annual magazine Indraprastha (2004-05), a startling 77% welcomed the idea of gay/lesbian marriages. TCP takes a look at the different shades of opinion offered by an average Indian parent; how will he/she react when they come to know of their child’s decision to form a same sex alliance.

The whole idea of homosexuality and the very sight of homosexuals make me feel like puking. -S Varnam, Businessman.

I strongly believe that homosexuality is abnormal. Homosexuality cannot be the basis of a marital union because heterosexuality is the law of nature. If my child decides to enter into a homosexual alliance, I would try to change his/her mind by explaining that it’s against social norms. If my child is adamant and decides to go ahead with the decision I would not support her. My behaviour with my child might be rough for sometime but my love for her won't change. -Sushma Mutneja, Homemaker.

Homosexuality is a matter of choice. It is essentially private and outside the sphere of moral judgment. There is an urgent need to modify laws so that sexuality is not brought under draconian laws and repressive measures. The need of the hour is social understanding and tolerance. I would respect my child's sexual preference as long as I know he is happy, is a law abiding citizen and not a communal or a social menace. -Dr S Mukherjee, Reader, Hindu College.
 

I do not have a problem with homosexuality. If such a relationship means complete happiness to my child, then why not? But if I do not like the person, with whom my child has decided to spend his entire life, I would certainly object to it. Gender, to me, would not matter. Yes, I will take a little time to adjust for a lot of social stigma is attached to such relationships and I know in the beginning we will be the centre of social criticism. I know there will be problems but…anything for my child!–Aditya Rajvanshi, Government Employee.
 

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