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🇳🇵 Nepal /Culture & Society

Authentically themselves: Queer artists in Nepal find affirmation through self-expression and community

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Nepal is considered progressive on LGBTQIA+ rights but still struggles to provide an inclusive environment for queer individuals.
  • Despite challenges, queer artists and community members in Nepal find affirmation through self-expression in art, drag shows, and community spaces.
  • These spaces and events offer connection, support, and a sense of belonging, allowing individuals to embrace their identities authentically.

In Nepal, a nation recognized as one of South Asia's most progressive regarding LGBTQIA+ rights, the journey for queer individuals is still marked by a struggle for a truly inclusive environment. Despite legal advancements, the daily reality for many involves navigating exclusion and prejudice alongside moments of self-discovery.

Art, community, music, drag shows, conversations with family, discussions about mental health and queer talks make me feel more queer every day. These comfort me a lot.

— Ugem ManandharDescribing his forms of self-expression as a queer artist.

Yet, the resilience and creativity of Nepal's queer community shine through their vibrant self-expression. Artists like Ugem Manandhar find comfort and affirmation in art, community gatherings, music, and drag shows, stating these acts make him feel "more queer every day." His first pride parade remains a vivid memory, a moment of unparalleled confidence where the crowd created a space for him to be "truly myself."

It was a day I was truly myself.

— Ugem ManandharRecalling his first pride parade.

These communal spaces, including queer-friendly cafes and events, are vital. Dia Magar, a trans woman and filmmaker, describes 'Inclusive Cafe' as a "judgment-free environment" where she can be herself and network within her community. For Magar, "every inclusivity as such is a moment of celebration for us."

In terms of networking and being in proximity to my own community, it is a space where I can be myself. Every inclusivity as such is a moment of celebration for us.

— Dia MagarDescribing the importance of LGBTQIA+-friendly spaces like 'Inclusive Cafe'.

Drag shows, in particular, become a powerful stage for self-expression. Aayam Poudel, who performs as drag persona Momolicca, transforms into a "hyperfeminine diva to express the sassiness I feel inside." Poudel views self-expression as inseparable from self-acceptance, calling it "the art of owning myself and reclaiming my pride and joy." Winning a drag competition was a moment of feeling "seen and validated," a glorious recognition of his prominent status as a drag artist in Nepal.

In drag shows, I change myself to a hyperfeminine diva to express the sassiness I feel inside.

— Aayam PoudelExplaining his drag persona, Momolicca.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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