Hrishikesh Sathawane, a US-based techie, shared his thoughts on the pivotal issue of LGBT marriage rights in India. Hrishikesh, who married his Vietnamese partner, Vinh, in a religious ceremony in his hometown of Yavatmal, Maharashtra, in 2017.
Hrishikesh’s journey into matrimony was no ordinary one. Gay marriages are not explicitly defined in Indian law, which means that while he and Vinh tied the knot, their union remains unrecognized by the Indian government. This legal gap is at the heart of the ongoing Supreme Court case surrounding gay marriage in India, a case that carries profound implications for countless couples like Hrishikesh and Vinh.
History of Marrying Absurd Things
What stands out most in Hrishikesh’s narrative is his steadfast belief in the importance of equal rights. He questions why, in a country where individuals can marry inanimate objects, animals, or deities, the idea of two consenting adults marrying each other is met with resistance. Hrishikesh reminds us that fundamental rights should not be subject to majority opinions or the views of a temporary government but should be upheld as a matter of principle.
The argument that gay marriage is incompatible with the Indian family unit is also scrutinized by Hrishikesh. He challenges the notion that traditional man-woman marriages are the sole path to raising well-adjusted children. Citing numerous studies that highlight the paramount importance of loving and caring parents, regardless of gender, he contends that same-sex couples, having consciously chosen parenthood, often excel at providing a nurturing environment.
Challenging Morality and Society Collapse
In his blog on NDTV, Hrishikesh takes a historical perspective of gay marriage when it comes to on the issue of morality. He reminds us that societies have evolved over time, shedding practices like “johar,” where women were compelled to self-sacrifice to avoid capture by enemies. Drawing this commonality, he questions the validity of contemporary objections to gay marriage based on outdated notions of morality.
Hrishikesh points to the Western world, where gay marriages have been legal for quite some time, as an example that debunks fears of societal collapse. He asks, “What is the Centre government afraid of?” and encourages a broader view that focuses on real challenges India faces, such as poverty, income inequality, gender inequality, corruption, education, environmental degradation, and poor sanitation.
In essence, Hrishikesh Sathawane’s message is clear: the recognition and acceptance of gay marriages should not be a contentious issue. It’s about two loving souls seeking happiness and contributing positively to society. It’s about providing same-sex couples with the same rights and privileges as those in “traditional marriages.” It’s about letting LGBTQ married people live their lives free from discrimination.
Final Thoughts
As the Supreme Court of India deliberates on this critical matter, Hrishikesh’s perspective serves as a reminder that the fight for LGBT marriage rights in India is not just about legal recognition; it’s about acknowledging and embracing love, equality, and human rights for all.
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