The representation of South Asian artists in pop culture and LGBTQ+ entertainment is notably lacking, with an alarming absence of visibility and representation in music, drag, film and beyond. Despite the vibrant and diverse cultures of South Asia, there remains a significant gap in mainstream media and entertainment when it comes to showcasing the experiences and stories of LGBTQ+ individuals of South Asian descent.
This lack of representation not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes and misconceptions but also denies queer South Asians the opportunity to see themselves reflected and celebrated in the broader LGBTQ+ movement. In light of this dearth of representation, the need for a South Asian Queer Pride movement has never been more pressing.
The good news is that a South Asian Queer Pride event is finally coming to the UK – designed to serve as a powerful symbol of empowerment, unity, and solidarity, offering a safe and inclusive space for queer South Asians to come together, share their stories, and celebrate their identities in a supportive and affirming environment.
South Asian Queer Pride is being brought to life through an amazing collaboration between Inspirate, Asifa Lahore (Festival Curator), Claudia Coelho (Producer), Queer Croydon and Stanley Arts. This year, the festival is a one day event, happening on Saturday 20th April, from 1-11pm, at Stanley Arts, Croydon.
Showcasing the vibrancy of South Asian Queer identity and artistic expression, this unique festival will be a safe, healing and inclusive space where South Asian Queer artists can freely express their sense of self, their imagination and creativity through their art form.
South Asian Queer Pride 2024 is a multi art form event, including dance, music, poetry, cabaret, burlesque and visual arts, and will feature both emerging and established South Asian Queer artists including NEO 10Y, Kaajel Patel, Shiva Raichandani, Bolly Illusion, DJ Ritu, Jason Patel, SABIYHA and more!
Speaking on the inception of the event, Asifa Lahore, Britain’s first out Muslim drag queen confesses, “I have dreamt, yearned for and advocated for a South Asian Queer Pride for my entire life. To have an event where we can be unapologetically Desi and queer at the same time is my queer Bollywood fantasy come true. The South Asian queer community is arguably the largest queer community of colour in the UK and we are constantly sidelined by the mainstream.“
She continues, “To have an event where we are not there to tick boxes, are simply add ons or have to present western appealing performances is us taking control of our own narratives and destiny. This is our queer Mela. This is South Asian Queer Pride.“
The festival will also be a platform for dialogue about LGBTQIA issues, including a programme of discussions, workshops and talks exploring the intersectionality of being South Asian and Queer, and the importance of rights, representation, inclusion and freedom of identity.
This year’s theme is Shakti, meaning ‘power’, ‘force’, ‘action’, an energy that resides within us and is present within the world around us. Through forming these exciting partnerships and collaborations, and channelling our collective inner ‘shakti’, the festival embraces JOY, TRAILBLAZING VISIBILTY, STRENGTH and COMMUNITY.
This powerful theme has also been inspired by the first ever UK LGBTQIA South Asian support network during the 80’s, called Shakti, providing a safe space for British South Asian Queer people. One of the pioneering voices within Shakti, DJ Ritu, will be the resident DJ during the day, alongside an eclectic and exciting programme of artists and activities that will unapologetically transform and energise Stanley Arts throughout the day and evening!
The establishment of a South Asian Queer Pride movement is essential not only for increasing visibility and representation but also for fostering a sense of belonging and community among LGBTQ+ individuals of South Asian descent. By highlighting the unique intersections of culture, identity, and queerness within the South Asian community, the Queer Pride is set to help challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and promote understanding and acceptance within and beyond the LGBTQ+ movement. Now more than ever, it is crucial to uplift and celebrate the voices and experiences of queer South Asians, affirming their right to visibility, dignity, and pride in a world that often seeks to erase or silence their existence.
This project has been funded by Arts Council England.