Close
Igniting Ideas For impact

Embarking on a transformative journey through six chapters, we traverse India's landscape, exploring pioneering startups and their revolutionary...

9 months

India’s first LGBT matrimonial?

Social media is buzzing with news of what might be India's first LGBT matrimonial with Harish Iyer's mother advertising for a groom for her 36-year-old son. The ad was published in Mid Day after 3 major dailies refused to carry it.

India’s first LGBT matrimonial?

Wanted: Groom for animal-loving son

11216491_10153366856456204_6201730628980433056_o

Social media has been abuzz with a matrimonial ad posted recently. Yes, a matrimonial. So what one might say? After all, these are a dime a dozen. However, this one is a tad bit different. This ad, posted by a concerned mother, advertises for a groom for her vegetarian, animal-loving son. This is possibly India’s first gay matrimonial ad.

The ad says:

“Seeking 25-40, Well Placed, Animal-Loving, Vegetarian GROOM for my SON (36, 5’11’’) who works with an NGO, Caste No Bar (Though IYER Preferred)..”

The son in this case is Harish Iyer, well-known LGBT activist. Iyer and his mother have, in the last couple of years, been on national TV during debates about Section 377 of the Indian Penal Act. According to The Guardian, three major dailies refused to run the advert on the grounds that it was illegal to do so. (While homosexuality was re-criminalised in the 2013 ruling, it remains to be seen if carrying an advert is illegal).

Social media of course has had a last say with several people applauding Iyer’s mother but commenting that the ad does have a caste angle. It says “Caste no bar (though Iyer preferred)”. The Guardian quotes Iyer as saying that he didn’t think his mother really meant that but it was more about finding someone from a similar background and language.

This story made me

  • feel inspired icon
    97
  • more aware icon
    121
  • better informative icon
    89
  • do something icon
    167

Tell Us More


We bring stories straight from the heart of India, to inspire millions and create a wave of impact. Our positive movement is growing bigger everyday, and we would love for you to join it.

Please contribute whatever you can, every little penny helps our team in bringing you more stories that support dreams and spread hope.

Support the biggest positivity movement section image Support the biggest positivity movement section image
Shorts

Shorts

See All
 
X
 
Sign in to get free benefits
  • Get positive stories daily on email
  • Join our community of positive ambassadors
  • Become a part of the positive movement