The Complex Landscape of Same-Sex Unions in India

India's Supreme Court has refused to legalize same-sex marriage, disappointing LGBTQ+ couples and activists. However, experts argue that same-sex unions have roots in Indian tradition, with evidence of same-sex love and romantic friendships flourishing in ancient and medieval India. Historians point to depictions of homosexuality in temples and ancient texts like the Kamasutra. While Indian perspectives on sex and love underwent a transformation during British rule, same-sex attachments were recognized and accepted. Despite the lack of legal recognition, same-sex marriages have taken place in India, predominantly involving young Hindu women from lower-middle-class backgrounds. The Supreme Court has suggested setting up a panel to consider granting social and legal rights to same-sex couples, but the path to marriage equality in India still depends on shifting public opinion and political will.