The Fascinating dynamics of Homosexuality in Manipur

Dr Omila Thounaojam *

Based upon recorded facts, the notion of "homosexuality" is condemned more than accepted in many parts of the world. One could see the emergence of a global movement by the end of the 19th century that demands for recognition, increased visibility and most importantly legal rights for homosexual people – this includes the rights to civil unions and marriage, adoption and parenting, employment and most importantly the introduction of anti-bullying legislation to protect them against humiliations of various natures.

The advancement in science and technology, in particular the growth of global communication has resulted in a boom of radical interaction across the nations on various tabooed subject matters. This means unlike earlier times, homosexual related issues and concerns are more widely heard and discussed at present owing to the celebration of the notion of the freedom of expression throughout.

The global scenario today is such that the messages that were left unexpressed and unheard since ages are given a great space and medium today. In the midst of the rising demand for a legally sanctioned place for the homosexuals in many parts of the world, a small state like Manipur has its own fascinating turn to the notion the "homosexuality".

The instant one mentions the term "homosexual", the mental image that pops out before us is that of "nupi saabis" in Manipur. While the concentration of gender studies seem to be fixed upon the interrogating the binary relationship between masculinity and femininity, a small state like ours is spearheading debates on the rising contribution of a facet of the homosexuality, as seen through the "nupi saabis" of the state.

Undeniable as it is that they do suffer from various stereotypically constructed social stigmas, the "nupi saabis" of the state at present have successfully emerged from the accepted position of a victim. Intentionally using the local term assigned to the particular community of the state's population, this write attempts at drawing the readers' attention towards the fascinating ways in which these individuals have risen above and have proved their creative and productive skills in the state.

Previously at the most, being ridiculed and treated as an outcaste who equals a misfit and worthless being, homosexuals today in our place have become synonyms of classified high fashion experts, designers, actors and entrepreneurs. Specifically referring to this community that is comprised of men with behavioral patterns of women (a genetically designed truth), it can be put forth here that they are increasingly drawing all our attention towards a wider world view that is inclusive in nature.

Today the height of the success story that is carved out of factual based life accounts of homosexuals in the state has unfailingly inspired many all over. Even though it will take some more years in achieving a biased free social outlook regarding the homosexuals in the state, it could nevertheless be claimed that this community has earned a huge respect from the society in terms of their contribution to its development.

Whether it is referring to their active participation as artist in the renowned local folk "shumang leela", or the generous ways in which the fabrics and traditional attires of the land are promoted and endorsed by designers hailing from this community or the popularity they have achieved in the field of cosmetic (fashion) – undoubtedly they have mastered the art of creating a niche place for themselves in our society.

The level of their growing rate of success tale is so fascinating that in a small state like us, wherein employment opportunity is very less till now, they have open up a wide array of employing themselves by celebrating their love and passion for looking beautiful and in short, the idea of femininity.

While the concept of a "third gender" is becoming very popular today, especially in reference to people who diverge from the conventional definition of acceptable sexual behaviors, the homosexuals of Manipur (often named "homo" in a negative light) are epitome of great fighters. Believe me or not, they have become inspirations for some youths and as such, they are turning themselves into small schools that train young minds to possess skills of productive nature.

Young girls and boys who intend to earn and be economically independent from an early age, (not always) go to them and become their trainee in order to acquire skills that have got a good market value. In short, the term homosexual in our state is also evolving into becoming a brand in itself that has a high demand in the production based competitive industry.

So much so to the level that concern of gender or sex is pushed aside in the background. All that we see today from a mere mention of them are a great chain of creativity and productivity that they bring along with them for themselves and fro the greater good.

May be many may not agree with the view points that I have presented regarding here. But genuinely I do believe in the respectable position this population has earned from us through an endless striving and hard work.

May be there will be the time very soon when all could see them beyond logical constructs of jargons built around them to discuss them.

May be we will see them as any other human being and respect them as we respect any other individual.