Artist Statement
“Gods of Pride in a Land оf Prejudice”
“Vikriti Evam Prakriti,” a saying from the ancient Indian Vedic text Rigveda, translates to “What seems unnatural, is natural.” Despite this inclusive view from 1500 BCE, many in India today believe the West is ‘corrupting their children’ with ‘queer ideas and identities.’ However, India’s history and culture are rich with queer stories and deities. Extreme right-wing religious politics have shifted Hinduism away from its inclusive values. Yet, queer and trans people in India often face hate speech, assaults, and police brutality.
This four-part series; inspired from the temple carvings and sculptures of Khajuraho, known for its extensive collection of erotic sculptures and carvings; aims to highlight India’s forgotten queer history and challenge the notion that queerness is a Western concept. Colonialism erased much of India’s vibrant queer and trans history, and the current rise in fascism has led many to distort Hinduism to justify hate crimes against those revered in Hindu mythology. This project seeks to undo some of that erasure and celebrate India’s true heritage, advocating for a more inclusive and accepting society.
“Agni”
Agni, the Hindu god of fire, embodies queerness through his marriages to both the goddess Svaha and the Moon god Soma, and his same-sex encounters with gods like Shiva and Soma. These relationships highlight Agni’s fluid sexual and romantic nature.
“Ardhanariswara”
Ardhanarishvara, an androgynous deity in Hindu mythology, merges Shiva and Parvati into one form, representing both masculine and feminine energies. This unity highlights the balance and interdependence of genders.
“Mitra and Varuna”
Mitra-Varuna, celebrated for their deep male bond in Hindu mythology, had children through ‘ayoni’ or non-vaginal sex, akin to modern surrogacy. Their relationship highlights diverse expressions of male companionship.
“Budha Graha”
Budha Graha, the non-binary Mercury god, is the child of Chandra and Tara. Budha married Ila, a deity who changes gender every month, symbolizing fluidity and diverse expressions of gender and love in Hindu mythology.