Fashion On Inclusive Path As Queer Community Claims Its Space

The Queer community is claiming its space in fashion and fusing it with art and politics to express their gender identities. Nitish Anand, a drag queen also known as Shabnam Bewafa, says dressing as a girl is a great way to celebrate the inner femininity. Pupps Roy calls himself 'all things gorgeously queer'. Outlook's Editor Chinki Sinha writes that fashion is an art that's lived on a daily basis. She notes that Indian fashion is not political enough, with 'rainbow colours sashaying down the runway' in the aftermath of decriminalisation of homosexuality being the 'most political Indian fashion has been'.

Updated: 17 Sep 2022 9:57 am

Nitish Anand says the name 'Shabnam Bewafa' comes from school days. A teacher named Shabnam used to call Nitish 'bewafa' (disloyal) during tough times in love. 'Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I made it my brand name,' says Nitish, adding it was a slap on the teacher's face.

Outlook's November 15, 2021 issue explored whether fashion in the post-Covid world would be inclusive, political, and disruptive. Editor Chinki Sinha noted in a piece that 'fashion's relevance lies in its reflection of the times, in its ability to empower, embolden, and change narratives'.

Pupps Roy, a queer person, believes in claiming his space in the world. He was featured in Outlook's November 15, 2021 issue.

Nitish Anand, also known as Shabnam Bewafa, is a drag queen and an LGBTQ activist in Delhi.

Pupps Roy calls himself 'all things gorgeously queer'.

Kajal Chaudhary and Pupps Roy are photographed here. Pupps is is queer and believes in claiming his space. Kajal is wearing Mohd Mazhar and Pupps is wearing his own clothes. Pupps' makeup has been done by Dinky Maggo and Kajal's makeup has been done by Nandini and hair have been styled by Sneha.