'Homos' in Manipur : A first hand account

Santa Khurai *

Born in Manipur in the winter December 6th through my chosen field - Beautician, Designer- I gave the society a large portion of its modernity, glamour, fashion just as others do in in their chosen field. I have written this article to reveal the depth of the commitment of the gay society to their work and profession which have contributed to the society in Manipur and in other society as well.

Today, I can proudly say that I am an icon of fashion and beauty in contemporary Manipur. I have been labelled the derogatory term 'HOMOS' and I have risen through the discrimination to demand the right of same-sex relation. For me, every aspect of life experienced has been the hard way. Often shocking the conservative Manipur society, my life was flamboyant and romantic to the same sex.

Using my truth, honesty and simplicity as an array of weapons for my life, I celebrated the arrival of the new guys after one's separation. In my thought and idea. This is a evolution of a new life. I stated "I am an individualist evolving a new technique. Which though not necessarily Manipuri in the traditional sense of the word, will yet be fundamental in Meitei spirit."

I interpret Manipuri's and principally the miserable life of the Manipuri 'HOMOS' in spirit that is on a plane that transcends mere sentimental interest.

I studied at "DON BOSCO SCHOOL' Chingmeirong, passed out (X) standard from there, did graduation from 'OSMANIA UNIVERSITY, HYDRABAD' and later did beautician course in Delhi. After this, I worked in the U.S. embassy for 3 yrs as a Beautician and returned to Manipur to set up my own Beauty parlour at my home.

I returned my Academics and knowledge to the Beauty world. I worked as a make up artist for Manipuri Digital albums & worked as a team Manager for a dance band called "SEVEN SISTERS". Also, inspired all my colleagues.

My works are vibrant and tell the success of the Manipuri 'HOMOS' and now can face this society with my contribution. I gave a new hope post impressionist to the society with our contribution. My vision is our right to live, which contrasted with the jaubdiced view of the common people of Manipur.

After that initial technical studies, my themes focused mainly on the orthodox, uncivilized narrow minded sense of our people. Some of the people, who were much inspired by my work said that they like my idea immensely. I had not seen a large number of people like that in our society .

Everything was sentimental, with no use of sacrifice and dedication. Now there is brightness, the colour of life and simplicity of form. The whole thing was something new. I am like a meteor in Manipur society.

My most creative period in the past one/two decades. After this, now my attention has turned towards the world of relation between me and my boyfriend understood from the sources of inspiration rather than the different sexes love relation.

My later works will show a more successful life style and happy permanent live-in life with my Boy-friend and my adopted son. Before my death "My friends, my family are my domain and I am on terms with it."

My ultimated death will prevent my life from ripening in the direction. I wanted to go. But I want to leave behind a legacy of works that will glow with the radiance and experience of not just a passionate 'HOMO' but a 'HOMO' with an original perspective. That is the most necessary ingredient of all enduring life.

A-Question- :
Why can't two boys or two girls get married ? Why does society not recognize, support and sanction gay's relationship ?

But there at least society is aware of marriage and break up. In our case the world is neither aware of our 'marriage' nor of its end. Help, too being scarce in the entire belt, the majority commoners are perennial haunted by fear psychosis which force us to life miserable life and fear.

But today I get the answer to all these questions after a long dead silence from the Delhi High Court declaring that consensual gay sex is not a crime. But still there is stigma and discrimination and homosexuality is accepted by every body there are battles and hurdles to be over come in our journey in life.