Same-sex lovers hope for inclusive V-Day

For 26-year-old Chandan Biswas, an IIT Madras graduate and a Chemistry teacher at FIITJEE, the top court’s September verdict has brought forth a change in the attitude of the people. “Last few Valentine’s Days, people I knew were denied entry into clubs as they were with same-gender companions,” he said. “This might change as a ripple effect of the verdict.” 

“I have full-fledged conversations with my students about gay rights and same-sex attractions, which itself is a big change as we never had such talks when we were in school,” he added. 

Vishal (24), a photographer/designer, feels that Chennai has a long way to go to be inclusive when it comes to Valentine’s Day celebrations. “The discrimination still exists as same-sex couples are ridiculed for even holding hands in public,” he said. 

Pointing out that the verdict has made its way into dinner table conversations and that itself is a reckoning, Vishal said, “Things cannot stop at mere communication. They must extend to cultural and lifestyle changes like Valentine’s Day celebrations too. Only then, same-sex relationships will be normalised.” 

Vishal is planning to come out to his parents shortly. They agree that the city can look up to other parts of the world and even other cities in the country to embrace same-sex relationships. “The first time I celebrated Valentine’s Day, I was in Scotland with my boyfriend. We had gone to the park for picnic. It will be great if Chennai provided such an environment too,” said Vishal. 

Drawing a comparison with other cities, Chandan said, “In Mumbai, people don’t bat an eyelid if they spot a gay couple. The restaurants, pubs and other places extend the same treatment to all couples.” Chandan is planning a low-key celebration this time like previous years.