How does it feel to be a closeted gay in India?

Being a closeted gay person in India can be a deeply challenging and isolating experience. Despite the decriminalization of homosexuality in 2018, societal attitudes remain largely conservative, and homophobia is prevalent. Here are some aspects of what it might feel like:

Emotional Struggle

• Fear and Anxiety: Closeted individuals often live with the fear of being discovered and face potential rejection from family and friends. This fear can lead to anxiety and stress, affecting mental health12.
• Deception and Isolation: To avoid detection, many resort to half-truths or secrecy, which can strain relationships with loved ones and lead to feelings of loneliness3.

Societal Pressures

• Stigma and Non-Acceptance: The societal stigma against LGBTQ+ individuals can make coming out daunting. Many fear being ostracized or facing violence, which discourages open expression of their identity23.
• Dual Lives: In professional settings, closeted individuals may lead dual lives to avoid discrimination, maintaining separate personas for personal and professional spheres5.

Personal Identity

• Authenticity and Self-Expression: Living in the closet can prevent individuals from expressing their true selves, leading to feelings of inauthenticity and dissatisfaction with life24.
• Hope for Acceptance: Despite the challenges, many closeted individuals hold onto the hope that they will someday be able to live openly and be accepted by their families and society34.

Overall, being a closeted gay person in India involves navigating a complex web of fear, societal expectations, and personal identity, often at the cost of mental well-being and authentic self-expression.