Host 1: Welcome, everyone, to constitutional podcast, where we explore the profound journey of the

LGBTQ community and its evolution over the years. I'm Kartik, and I'm joined by my co-hosts Ananya
and Rachelle. We are thrilled to embark on this enlightening journey with you, as we delve deep into
the captivating history and evolution of the LGBTQ community. By choosing "Evolution of LGBTQ" as
our podcast topic, we aim to shed light on a subject that transcends time and resonates deeply with
the human experience. before we plunge into this remarkable journey, we want to share why this topic
means so much to us. The LGBTQ movement isn't just a historical account; it's a testament to the
unyielding spirit of humanity, a story of individuals who have dared to challenge societal norms, fought
tirelessly for their rights, and, in doing so, forged a path towards a more inclusive and accepting world.

Let’s start with basics so everyone who don’t know anything can relate with us. the meaning of
LGBTQIA+

L (Lesbian): A lesbian is a woman/woman-aligned person who is attracted to only people of

the same/similar gender.
G (Gay): Gay is usually a term used to refer to men/men-aligned individuals who are only
attracted to people of the same/similar gender. However, lesbians can also be referred to as
gay.
B (Bisexual): Bisexual indicates an attraction to all genders. The recognition of bisexual
individuals is important, since there have been periods when people who identify as bi have
been misunderstood as being gay. Bisexuality has included transgender, binary and nonbinary
individuals since the release of the "Bisexual Manifesto" in 1990.
T (Transgender): Transgender is a term that indicates that a person's gender identity is
different from the gender associated with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Q (Queer): Though queer may be used by people as a specific identity, it is often considered
an umbrella term for anyone who is non-cisgender or heterosexual.
Intersex: A term to describe individuals who are born with variations of sex characteristics that
do not fit with binary definitions of male or female bodies.
Asexual: Sometimes shorted to "ace," this term refers to someone who has little or no sexual
attraction; they may, however, experience romantic attraction.
+ (Plus): The 'plus' is used to signify all of the gender identities and sexual orientations that
are not specifically covered by the other five initials. An example is Two-Spirit, a pan-
Indigenous American identity.
Host 1: we're delving into the rich history of LGBTQIA identities in one of the world's oldest
civilizations—ancient India.
Host: I'm taking you on a fascinating journey into the heart of ancient Indian epics—the
Mahabharata and Ramayana that was the presence of LGBTQ+ themes at that time.
In Mahabharat there is an interesting story about Shikhandini, the feminine or transgender
warrior of the time and responsible for the defeat and killing of Bhishma. Shikhandini was a
daughter of King Drupada, who raised her as a prince to take revenge from the Kurus, the
rulers of Hastinapur. Drupada even got Shikhandini married to a woman. After her wife
discovered the reality, she revolted
At another place the Ramayana tells the tale of king named Dilip, who had two wives. He died
without having an heir. So, Lord shiva came in their dream and told them if they both make
love you will having a baby. After doing that one of them got pregnant in real. They gave birth
to the child, who went on to become the famous king Bhagirath, best known for having
through river ganga from heaven to the earth. So, it is not the today’s thing it is from the
beginning of gods.
one narrative that stands out is the story of Lord Ayyappa, a deity revered in the southern
Indian state of Kerala. Now, this story is particularly intriguing because it challenges traditional
gender norms in a profound way. Lord Ayyappa, also known as Dharma Shasta, is believed to
be the son of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu (in the Mohini form). His legend, rooted in
compassion and acceptance, involves a union that transcends gender boundaries and
identities. This story invites us to explore the spiritual realm's recognition of diverse identities
and relationships. Lord Ayyappa's tale isn't just a myth; it's a testament to the sanctity of love
and acceptance.
the deity Ardhanarishvara, a symbol of the divine union of Shiva and Parvati, where the god
appears as both male and female in one form. This ancient representation challenges
conventional notions of gender binary and underscores the acceptance of diverse gender
expressions within Hinduism. As we delve into these mythological narratives, we'll explore
how gods and goddesses navigate the complexities of identity and relationships. These stories
reveal a profound truth—diversity and inclusivity have always been valued and revered in our
traditions. These stories remind us that acceptance and respect for diversity have been
ingrained in our cultural and spiritual heritage for millennia.
Host 1: As we dive into this captivating subject, we'll also touch upon the significance of
gender variance in ancient texts, the sculptures in temples and how LGBTQIA identities were
integrated into art, literature, and spirituality. It's essential to understand how ancient
civilizations embraced and celebrated diversity, as it can provide us with valuable lessons for
today's world. While India is often viewed as a conservative society today, it was remarkably
liberal and accepting of diverse sexual identities long before the 13th century. Travel with us
to ancient India, where around 200 A.D., numerous temples proudly displayed intricate erotic
sculptures. One such marvel is the Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, featuring graphic depictions
of various sexual acts, including polygamy, lesbian relationships, and even homosexual
relationships. These intriguing erotic temple artworks are not limited to just one location. The
Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh, built between 950 A.D. and 1050 A.D., feature similar
explicit sculptures alongside depictions of gods, goddesses, and everyday life.
These sculptures weren't mere indulgences; they were an integral part of ancient education.
Kamasutra, the famous book of love, was taught to young students, serving as a pictorial
medium to impart knowledge about human desires and relationships.
Another scripture, the Narmada purana has reference to what may be classified as ‘unnatural
offences’ describer in s.377. In Vedic and Hindu literature there are reference to fluid gender
identities and the idea that the self transcends physical attributes.
Ancient text such as Kamasutra and the Artha shastra, contain reference to various forms of
non-heteronormative sexuality and gender diversity.
Kamasutra, for instance, acknowledges the existence of hijra, individuals who would today be
understood transgender or intersex these text often after took a non-judgemental or
accepting view of diverse sexual and gender identities.
These depictions suggest a level of acceptance and recognition of LGBTQAI+ in duties in
ancient Indian society.
The famous law code, Manu smriti provides for punishment to homosexual men and women.
Manu smriti says that if a girl has sex with another girl, she is liable for a fine of two hundred
coins and ten whiplashes. But if lesbian sex is performed by a mature woman on a girl, her
head should be shaved or two of her fingers cut off as punishment. The woman should also
be made to ride on a donkey.
In the case of homosexual males, Manu smriti says that sexual union between with two men
brings loss of caste. If a man has sex with non-human females or with another man or
indulges in anal or oral sex with women, he is liable for punishment as per the "Painful
Heating Vow".
Another scripture, the Narada Purana has references to what may be classified as "unnatural
offences" described in Section 377. At one place, the Narada Purana states, anyone who
discharges semen in non-vaginas, in those beings destitute of vulva, and uteruses of animals
is a great sinner and will fall in hell. The purana does not approve of "unnatural offences"
but the references prove that they were in practice.
In ancient India, the LGBTQ+ community found a remarkable degree of acceptance and
belonging. Society, shaped by diverse cultures and spiritual philosophies, celebrated love
and recognized its many forms.
Deities like Ardhanarishvara, representing the union of male and female energies in one
form, embodied the fluidity of identity. Temples, revered as sacred spaces, bore intricate
carvings depicting same-sex love, affirming that love transcended societal norms.
LGBTQ+ individuals were integral to the fabric of society, contributing to its richness.
Acceptance and understanding were cherished values, making their lives less marked by
struggle and more by genuine inclusion.
Today, we look to this ancient history as a beacon of inspiration. It reminds us that
acceptance, love, and diversity are timeless values, and it encourages us to continue the
journey toward a world where every individual, regardless of their identity, is celebrated,
valued, and free to live authentically. In celebrating this legacy, we honour the past while
striving for a brighter, more inclusive future.