Gay Capital of the Sub-Continent: Bangalore

While the government of India wrestles with its official stance on homosexuality, the gay-lesbian scene in Bangalore is flourishing. Just last week,

The Delhi high court directed the Union government to figure out its stance on homosexuality; the ministry of home affairs favours prosecution (homosexuality is punishable under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code), while the health ministry is against enforcing this law for issues related to health monitoring.

Meanwhile, Bangalore’s social scene, and in some cases, professional settings, are facing no such quandary. Clubs such as the Gay Running and Breakfast Club (GRAB) and Good As You (GAY) are emerging alongside the growing expatriate population. In fact, Time Out, a popular publication, is planning to get in on the scene as well:

In mid-July, the Indian franchise of London-based TimeOut magazine plans to launch in Bangalore and include a section with gay- and lesbian-specific content and listings, as it has done in Mumbai and New Delhi.

The majority of India, however, remains opposed to homosexuality. Just today, in fact, our discussion with a group of Indian, Ahmedabadi youngsters regarding homosexuality erupted in a chorus of strong opposition.

What about you – do you live in an urban area? How is your city evolving?

Source: OneWorld South Asia