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Queeristan: LGBTQ Inclusion in the Indian Workplace
The reading down of Section 377 by the Supreme Court in 2018 has led to a fundamental shift in the rights of India’s LGBTQ citizens and necessitated policy changes across the board—not least in the conservative world of Indian business.
In this path-breaking and genre-defying book, Parmesh Shahani—vice president at Godrej Industries Ltd—draws from his decade-long journey in the corporate world as an out and proud gay man, to make a cogent case for LGBTQ inclusion and lay down a step-by-step guide to reshaping office culture in India. He talks to inclusion champions and business leaders about how they worked towards change; traces the benefits reaped by industry giants like Godrej, Tata Steel, IBM, Wipro, the Lalit group of hotels and many others who have tapped into the power of diversity; and shares the stories of employees whose lives were revolutionised by LGBTQ-friendly workspaces.
In this affecting memoir-cum-manifesto, Shahani animates the data and strategy with intimate stories of love and family. Even as it becomes an expansive reference book of history, literature, cinema, movements, institutions and icons of the LGBTQ community, Queeristan drives home a singular point—in diversity and inclusion lies the promise of an equitable and profitable future, for companies, their employees and the society at large.
In this path-breaking and genre-defying book, Parmesh Shahani—vice president at Godrej Industries Ltd—draws from his decade-long journey in the corporate world as an out and proud gay man, to make a cogent case for LGBTQ inclusion and lay down a step-by-step guide to reshaping office culture in India. He talks to inclusion champions and business leaders about how they worked towards change; traces the benefits reaped by industry giants like Godrej, Tata Steel, IBM, Wipro, the Lalit group of hotels and many others who have tapped into the power of diversity; and shares the stories of employees whose lives were revolutionised by LGBTQ-friendly workspaces.
In this affecting memoir-cum-manifesto, Shahani animates the data and strategy with intimate stories of love and family. Even as it becomes an expansive reference book of history, literature, cinema, movements, institutions and icons of the LGBTQ community, Queeristan drives home a singular point—in diversity and inclusion lies the promise of an equitable and profitable future, for companies, their employees and the society at large.
12 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 17, 2020
54 people are currently reading
313 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 19, 2021
Being queer is not all about despair. There is also so much joy in our identities as queer persons. It is about holding these contradictions together in the mind, celebrating the flux, mourning the violence, pushing for change and being hopeful for a better tomorrow. I thought of 1861, when Victorian morality informed Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. The British criminalised what they could not understand, and colonised our minds.
The book explores the LGBTQ community in the Indian corporate workspace and how to improve the policies of your company to include them.
In India, where same-sex marriage is still not legal and trans laws are not that strong on a national level, this book suggests changes to the status quo.
The reason why this is not five stars for me is because it can get boring in the first part, however the second part is what I stayed for.
The book explores the LGBTQ community in the Indian corporate workspace and how to improve the policies of your company to include them.
In India, where same-sex marriage is still not legal and trans laws are not that strong on a national level, this book suggests changes to the status quo.
The reason why this is not five stars for me is because it can get boring in the first part, however the second part is what I stayed for.
August 31, 2021
This book is more than what its title promises- it's a window into the history, legalization, education on terminologies, related social movements, stories of hope and the champions of change of the LGBTQIAA+ movement in India.
I liked that the author accepts his own privilege and justifies why it is the job of people with social capital to amplify the voice of the movement, a task which he seems to be advocating extremely well.
Reading this book has certainly made me more aware , empathetic and inquisitive about learning more about the queer community. Sab Padho, dimaag ke taale khulenge!
I liked that the author accepts his own privilege and justifies why it is the job of people with social capital to amplify the voice of the movement, a task which he seems to be advocating extremely well.
Reading this book has certainly made me more aware , empathetic and inquisitive about learning more about the queer community. Sab Padho, dimaag ke taale khulenge!
August 1, 2021
“You are normal. You are fine. We are going to change the world around us soon to make sure that everyone understands this, but you need to know this right now.” — Parmesh Shahani, Queeristan.
Queeristan is partly a memoir and partly manifesto by Parmesh Shahani, who is an out and proud gay man. Being the vice president of Godrej Industries Ltd, he uses his influence to push for LGBTQ inclusion in India, specially the corporate world.
The book is divided into 5 parts. An excerpt from the book sums it up perfectly:
‘The first part has more elements of memoir— the author's career as an entrepreneur and LGBTQ change-maker. The second part gives a brief overview of different aspects of being LGBTQ in India—including what the acronym stands for, queer history, the legal status and the overwhelming importance of families in their lives.
The third part shifts gears towards the manifesto and makes a case for LGBTQ inclusion in Indian companies. The fourth part describes in great detail the exact steps workplaces need to take to make this inclusion happen. The book concludes with the fifth part, an outline of what Queeristan—the dream-like world of equality—could look like.’
The book brings to focus the voices that are so pivotal in the LGBTQ movement in India. But most importantly it is bound together by poignant, heartwarming, inspiring and hopeful stories of LGBTQ people and ally from all over India and how they're making India inclusive and a safe space one step at a time. Because stories are something that can sensitise readers. Without stories the statistics are just cold facts.
However, reading this book felt like a chore to me. There is way too much data and names thrown at the reader, which coupled with a non-linear narrative is hard to keep track of. But mostly it's due to the fact that non-fiction isn't my go-to genre and circumstances led me to read this book in a rush. Go ahead, pick this book and decide for yourself.
Queeristan is partly a memoir and partly manifesto by Parmesh Shahani, who is an out and proud gay man. Being the vice president of Godrej Industries Ltd, he uses his influence to push for LGBTQ inclusion in India, specially the corporate world.
The book is divided into 5 parts. An excerpt from the book sums it up perfectly:
‘The first part has more elements of memoir— the author's career as an entrepreneur and LGBTQ change-maker. The second part gives a brief overview of different aspects of being LGBTQ in India—including what the acronym stands for, queer history, the legal status and the overwhelming importance of families in their lives.
The third part shifts gears towards the manifesto and makes a case for LGBTQ inclusion in Indian companies. The fourth part describes in great detail the exact steps workplaces need to take to make this inclusion happen. The book concludes with the fifth part, an outline of what Queeristan—the dream-like world of equality—could look like.’
The book brings to focus the voices that are so pivotal in the LGBTQ movement in India. But most importantly it is bound together by poignant, heartwarming, inspiring and hopeful stories of LGBTQ people and ally from all over India and how they're making India inclusive and a safe space one step at a time. Because stories are something that can sensitise readers. Without stories the statistics are just cold facts.
However, reading this book felt like a chore to me. There is way too much data and names thrown at the reader, which coupled with a non-linear narrative is hard to keep track of. But mostly it's due to the fact that non-fiction isn't my go-to genre and circumstances led me to read this book in a rush. Go ahead, pick this book and decide for yourself.
August 23, 2020
I did help research this very book with Parmesh, a mentor, so this comes from bias, but also from a space of objective gratitude (if that's even a thing).
The book, like so many queer-anthologies and autobiographies (which I fear veer towards mediocrity, literarily speaking, the Indian queer literary scene is heartfelt, perhaps inter-sectional but lacking in quality) primarily functions as a text of hope. Queer people growing up often feel alone, and there is a fear that this alone-ness might morph into loneliness and endure through life. Books like this and even Red Lipstick (which was something between a laundry list and a teenage diary entry) serve as contradictions to this, that here are people queer-as-fuck who have grown into their queerness and found both solace and security, even popularity, in it.
Parmesh's writing is quite tender and cackling, like a bitchy endearing friend, and it is when this shows that the book really soars! Even at his eloquent best, like when he describes Mumbai as a bird sweeping through, there is a pathos, and irreverence- P's greatest qualities. But this is all in the memoir bit of the book.
When it comes to the corporate manifesto part of the book, I had philosophical and economic issues. One is the conflation of correlation with causation, which is written about in the book, but P is such a palimpsest, he loves his "Ands", hates the "Ors" and so for him it is never correlation or causation, it is correlation "AND" causation, which would fire up any student or teacher of econometrics, but this isn't an economic book. I refuse to believe that there is a causal link between being inclusive and being profitable. (Careful, I am not saying that inclusive companies aren't profitable, but what I am saying is that if you are a homophobe, suddenly becoming inclusive is no guarantee to becoming profitable. The truth is, there might be qualities that make one inclusive, that also help make one profitable, the "omitted variable bias".)
It's also quite long because P loves to include everyone and everything in it, from speakers at the India Culture Lab to small meetings and brushes at the airport. This is testament to his expansive idea of memoir, but also shows the unedited quality of it. It's why I love and question him so much!
But the best portions of the book, in my opinion, is how he tackles "history" and "law". Queer history is not about Ancient India and texts and mythological characters, but also about contemporary memoirs, memories, and letters from archives. (One of the most heartbreaking moments of the book is a letter written by someone to a Calcutta based LGBTQ Collective asking to send him a lover, and that he will be waiting with a coat and flower in hand at a designated spot at a designated time. P wonders where that man is today, if he is even alive, if he is in love, with a man, and accepted.) Even Law isn't entirely about the court cases, but how activism was building through the cases, and how the movement was forming, and splintering, and how feminism came in and out, the warp and weft of queer activism that crystallized into the affidavits in the court. It's quite something to take a subject as dry and articulated as history and law, and flip it, queer it, and add a varnish of pathos and prattle. But that's P.
The book, like so many queer-anthologies and autobiographies (which I fear veer towards mediocrity, literarily speaking, the Indian queer literary scene is heartfelt, perhaps inter-sectional but lacking in quality) primarily functions as a text of hope. Queer people growing up often feel alone, and there is a fear that this alone-ness might morph into loneliness and endure through life. Books like this and even Red Lipstick (which was something between a laundry list and a teenage diary entry) serve as contradictions to this, that here are people queer-as-fuck who have grown into their queerness and found both solace and security, even popularity, in it.
Parmesh's writing is quite tender and cackling, like a bitchy endearing friend, and it is when this shows that the book really soars! Even at his eloquent best, like when he describes Mumbai as a bird sweeping through, there is a pathos, and irreverence- P's greatest qualities. But this is all in the memoir bit of the book.
When it comes to the corporate manifesto part of the book, I had philosophical and economic issues. One is the conflation of correlation with causation, which is written about in the book, but P is such a palimpsest, he loves his "Ands", hates the "Ors" and so for him it is never correlation or causation, it is correlation "AND" causation, which would fire up any student or teacher of econometrics, but this isn't an economic book. I refuse to believe that there is a causal link between being inclusive and being profitable. (Careful, I am not saying that inclusive companies aren't profitable, but what I am saying is that if you are a homophobe, suddenly becoming inclusive is no guarantee to becoming profitable. The truth is, there might be qualities that make one inclusive, that also help make one profitable, the "omitted variable bias".)
It's also quite long because P loves to include everyone and everything in it, from speakers at the India Culture Lab to small meetings and brushes at the airport. This is testament to his expansive idea of memoir, but also shows the unedited quality of it. It's why I love and question him so much!
But the best portions of the book, in my opinion, is how he tackles "history" and "law". Queer history is not about Ancient India and texts and mythological characters, but also about contemporary memoirs, memories, and letters from archives. (One of the most heartbreaking moments of the book is a letter written by someone to a Calcutta based LGBTQ Collective asking to send him a lover, and that he will be waiting with a coat and flower in hand at a designated spot at a designated time. P wonders where that man is today, if he is even alive, if he is in love, with a man, and accepted.) Even Law isn't entirely about the court cases, but how activism was building through the cases, and how the movement was forming, and splintering, and how feminism came in and out, the warp and weft of queer activism that crystallized into the affidavits in the court. It's quite something to take a subject as dry and articulated as history and law, and flip it, queer it, and add a varnish of pathos and prattle. But that's P.
October 18, 2020
Thanks to Audible Free Trial I listened to this amazing non-fiction on LGBTQ inclusion in Indian workplaces. Author Parmesh Sahani identifies as gay Indian, working closely with Godrej higher management and employees for years to create an inclusive workplace, both legally and in spirit. This book is a result of those years of experience, research, collaboration with individuals from difference spectrum of the society and organizations who has successfully transitioned into a queer friendly one.
Indian history is inclusive. From the Khajuraho temple architectures, to Konark to the Rig Veda, there is existing proofs even 2000 years ago of Indian inclusiveness of queer. It’s the draconian British law that criminalised it, which was scraped in 2009, came into effect once again following a sad judgement in 2013 and eventually was scraped off for good in 2018. I am in awe of the lawyers who fought this legal battle- colleagues and partners – Arundhati Katju and Menaka Guruswamy, and the multiple petitioners. The day I listened to this case details, I watched their interviews over YouTube for hours.
Parents need to be inclusive. Family is power. My personal favorite where the anecdotes and individual stories. A mother introducing her now gender transitioned daughter to all her relatives at a marriage function. Another family understanding and supporting their daughter’s same sex marriage. Support groups in educational spaces. Active activism. Queer family structure being included in children’s coursework. Success stories of transgenders, especially that of the hijra community. Parenthood in the queer scenario. A company actively sensitizing its employees to support and welcome back a particular employee undergoing gender transition – simple respect such as them being able to use the other washroom. The unique stories of Muslim queer minorities, transmen, simple steps towards erasure of homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.
Complete review at:
https://www.magic-moments.in/2020/10/...
Indian history is inclusive. From the Khajuraho temple architectures, to Konark to the Rig Veda, there is existing proofs even 2000 years ago of Indian inclusiveness of queer. It’s the draconian British law that criminalised it, which was scraped in 2009, came into effect once again following a sad judgement in 2013 and eventually was scraped off for good in 2018. I am in awe of the lawyers who fought this legal battle- colleagues and partners – Arundhati Katju and Menaka Guruswamy, and the multiple petitioners. The day I listened to this case details, I watched their interviews over YouTube for hours.
Parents need to be inclusive. Family is power. My personal favorite where the anecdotes and individual stories. A mother introducing her now gender transitioned daughter to all her relatives at a marriage function. Another family understanding and supporting their daughter’s same sex marriage. Support groups in educational spaces. Active activism. Queer family structure being included in children’s coursework. Success stories of transgenders, especially that of the hijra community. Parenthood in the queer scenario. A company actively sensitizing its employees to support and welcome back a particular employee undergoing gender transition – simple respect such as them being able to use the other washroom. The unique stories of Muslim queer minorities, transmen, simple steps towards erasure of homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.
Complete review at:
https://www.magic-moments.in/2020/10/...
July 2, 2021
Queeristan is a memoir cum manifesto book on LGBTQ inclusion in workplace. Author Parmesh Shahanhi who is the vice president at Godrej tells his story about how he brought in LGBTQ inclusion at his workplace. And shares the stories of employees whose lives were revolutionised by LGBTQ-friendly workspaces.
The author told about several activists, leaders and organisations' stories that fought down section 377. Not only that, for me--as an ally-- it was like a get to go guide. When I was 13, I was completely unaware of LGBTQ community. I would get disgusted at the feminine gays shown in Bollywood or when coming across a hijra in a traffic. My parents never said who the people on streets are and why are they begging. They only said: 'They are bad people.'
It was the internet that busted myths and prejudices. Now, I support LGBTQ in any way possible. Even if it means to try and make my school LGBTQ friendly or to support my homosexual friends, I try my best. This book informed me more about the journey of LGBTQ in India. I came across more identifies and what they mean. I also came across stories of homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, the unjust laws, etc. (They almost made me tear up😭)
But Parmesh sir also showed the positive things that took place. How different states were taking the initiative to become inclusive and how parents were becoming accepting of their gay, bisexual, lesbian children. I loved the part where he answered the question that roamed around my mind the whole time I read the book : What about the ones who are privileged? What should they do with it?
The answer was to share the stories of the ones who are underprivileged-- opening doors for others. The book inspired me to keep going and support LGBTQ community at all means. The writing style, that had a pinch of desiness, kept the book engaging. It was my first non-fiction book and would be my most favourite of all times!
The author told about several activists, leaders and organisations' stories that fought down section 377. Not only that, for me--as an ally-- it was like a get to go guide. When I was 13, I was completely unaware of LGBTQ community. I would get disgusted at the feminine gays shown in Bollywood or when coming across a hijra in a traffic. My parents never said who the people on streets are and why are they begging. They only said: 'They are bad people.'
It was the internet that busted myths and prejudices. Now, I support LGBTQ in any way possible. Even if it means to try and make my school LGBTQ friendly or to support my homosexual friends, I try my best. This book informed me more about the journey of LGBTQ in India. I came across more identifies and what they mean. I also came across stories of homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, the unjust laws, etc. (They almost made me tear up😭)
But Parmesh sir also showed the positive things that took place. How different states were taking the initiative to become inclusive and how parents were becoming accepting of their gay, bisexual, lesbian children. I loved the part where he answered the question that roamed around my mind the whole time I read the book : What about the ones who are privileged? What should they do with it?
The answer was to share the stories of the ones who are underprivileged-- opening doors for others. The book inspired me to keep going and support LGBTQ community at all means. The writing style, that had a pinch of desiness, kept the book engaging. It was my first non-fiction book and would be my most favourite of all times!
March 30, 2022
I want to say that this book is a must read for all in the corporate world, more so for those who can influence policy making / hiring decisions at their organisation. But I'm going to say that this book is a must read for ALL.
It's insightful. It fills you with hope. It fills you with pride for what has been accomplished. And it fills you with the knowledge that there's a lot that still needs to be done.
It's insightful. It fills you with hope. It fills you with pride for what has been accomplished. And it fills you with the knowledge that there's a lot that still needs to be done.
October 12, 2023
Let's be honest - LGBTQ+ movement in corporate India is just a namesake. The MNCs that are clustered in the metros do have effective programs to drive the agenda , but the rural community still remains untapped.
With as much prevailed profile and reach as Parmesh's (you will know better if you read through his corporate profile history and his connections ) , Queeristhan is a Neo natal guide to encourage and establish a welcoming and conducive LGBTQ culture in the corporates. While the book tries to bring out the advantages , tying back to the company share price to brand image to customer loyalty, the ground reality is in Indian corporate scenario , LGBTQ simply remains a topic of trending marketing and least priority in investment avenues.
Queeristhan gives a opaque view of the corporate policies and frameworks, failing to mention the feasibility and functionality of a diversity group in an organisation. It also fails to address the geographical placement of Indian companies and mostly written with a presumption that all MNCs operate in the urban setup.
Read it for the flavour and not for the main course!
With as much prevailed profile and reach as Parmesh's (you will know better if you read through his corporate profile history and his connections ) , Queeristhan is a Neo natal guide to encourage and establish a welcoming and conducive LGBTQ culture in the corporates. While the book tries to bring out the advantages , tying back to the company share price to brand image to customer loyalty, the ground reality is in Indian corporate scenario , LGBTQ simply remains a topic of trending marketing and least priority in investment avenues.
Queeristhan gives a opaque view of the corporate policies and frameworks, failing to mention the feasibility and functionality of a diversity group in an organisation. It also fails to address the geographical placement of Indian companies and mostly written with a presumption that all MNCs operate in the urban setup.
Read it for the flavour and not for the main course!
October 21, 2020
Statistics estimate that in advanced economies, between 3-7 percent of the adult population identifies as LGBTQ. This may seem small but when calculated for a population comprising millions, it is a significant number that cannot be ignored.
In Queeristan, author Parmesh Shahani—vice president at Godrej Industries Ltd—shares his journey towards becoming an advocate of LGBTQ inclusion and goes on to explain the varied identities of the Queer community in India, which he does by breaking down the Queer Alphabet Soup - LGBTQIA+. If you’re not aware already, this alone does a great job of familiarising you with all the different identities and the challenges that come with it.
The book traces the history of the Queer movement, which has evolved alongside the Feminist movement. It also discusses what it means to be LGBTQ in India and shares intimately powerful stories of love and acceptance.
The essence of this book is the case it makes for LGBTQ diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Studies have found that consciously talking about diversity and inclusion makes an organization 45% more likely to increase its market share. It is important to note that this does not mean only women, as most businesses believe.
The author shares experiences of inclusion champions and business leaders who have systemically worked towards bringing changes in their LGBTQ policies. He lays out a five-step guide for businesses to create a queer-friendly and inclusive work environment.
This is not simply a memoir or manifesto. It is an exhaustive reference for understanding the challenges of the Queer community and sensitising the reader that Queer rights are basic human rights. Not just them but society at large needs to advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Queeristan does a brilliant job of introducing you to a constantly evolving world of possibilities and invites you to join in and create it as per imagination.
In Queeristan, author Parmesh Shahani—vice president at Godrej Industries Ltd—shares his journey towards becoming an advocate of LGBTQ inclusion and goes on to explain the varied identities of the Queer community in India, which he does by breaking down the Queer Alphabet Soup - LGBTQIA+. If you’re not aware already, this alone does a great job of familiarising you with all the different identities and the challenges that come with it.
The book traces the history of the Queer movement, which has evolved alongside the Feminist movement. It also discusses what it means to be LGBTQ in India and shares intimately powerful stories of love and acceptance.
The essence of this book is the case it makes for LGBTQ diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Studies have found that consciously talking about diversity and inclusion makes an organization 45% more likely to increase its market share. It is important to note that this does not mean only women, as most businesses believe.
The author shares experiences of inclusion champions and business leaders who have systemically worked towards bringing changes in their LGBTQ policies. He lays out a five-step guide for businesses to create a queer-friendly and inclusive work environment.
This is not simply a memoir or manifesto. It is an exhaustive reference for understanding the challenges of the Queer community and sensitising the reader that Queer rights are basic human rights. Not just them but society at large needs to advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Queeristan does a brilliant job of introducing you to a constantly evolving world of possibilities and invites you to join in and create it as per imagination.
September 9, 2020
In Queeristan Parmesh weaves a rich narrative of the Queer space in India based on his own experiences, accounts of his contacts from the LGBTQIA+ community and from various sources like articles, books, movies, research studies, reports, etc.
This is a good book to start one's understanding of the Queer community because Parmesh covers a lot of ground. A brief summary of the aspects he covers:
1. Demystifying the terminologies and legalities one comes across - LGBTQ, LGBTQIA+, cis-gender, transgender, the history behind article 377 etc
2.Historic and mythological narratives of the LGBTQ community in India
3. The Business angle - Queers as consumers and as a top-notch talented part of the workforce.
4. Inclusiveness angle - How can the workplace be made LGBTQ inclusive (it is a detailed step by step guide). He explains how organizations can bring about meaningful changes rather than just indulging in pink-washing'.
5. Societal angle - The role of parents first in encouraging them to come out and embracing them after. Then comes the larger role of how society is changing (and can change a lot more) and embracing those who come out.
6. Various organizations, movements, synopsis of court cases (Godrej, Tatas, Kashish, Humsafar, NALSA judgement etc)
7. Parmesh's own roller coaster journey to get to where he is today and his superhuman efforts to change the conversations on the LGBTQ community.
I listened to this book on audible and I must say I am glad I did that because the way he narrates his book adds a new layer to the book itself!
I enjoyed listening to his book!
This is a good book to start one's understanding of the Queer community because Parmesh covers a lot of ground. A brief summary of the aspects he covers:
1. Demystifying the terminologies and legalities one comes across - LGBTQ, LGBTQIA+, cis-gender, transgender, the history behind article 377 etc
2.Historic and mythological narratives of the LGBTQ community in India
3. The Business angle - Queers as consumers and as a top-notch talented part of the workforce.
4. Inclusiveness angle - How can the workplace be made LGBTQ inclusive (it is a detailed step by step guide). He explains how organizations can bring about meaningful changes rather than just indulging in pink-washing'.
5. Societal angle - The role of parents first in encouraging them to come out and embracing them after. Then comes the larger role of how society is changing (and can change a lot more) and embracing those who come out.
6. Various organizations, movements, synopsis of court cases (Godrej, Tatas, Kashish, Humsafar, NALSA judgement etc)
7. Parmesh's own roller coaster journey to get to where he is today and his superhuman efforts to change the conversations on the LGBTQ community.
I listened to this book on audible and I must say I am glad I did that because the way he narrates his book adds a new layer to the book itself!
I enjoyed listening to his book!
October 18, 2020
This is a delightful memoir-cum-manual on LGBTQ inclusion in India by one of the most well-known faces of the movement, Parmesh Shahani.
Two things particularly stood out for me. First, the content. I had never known the LGBTQ movement was so vibrant in India. Through his own experiences, Parmesh showcases the dynamic and thriving world of people making a difference. Secondly, and personally for me what stood out the most, Parmesh's eloquent and lucid use of Indian English in a book that's non-fiction. It's amazing how Parmesh holds his own even in the language he uses and firmly impresses the identity of Indian English in a book that is otherwise istensibly about LGBTQ identities.
On the other hand, I found the name dropping (of people, titles, places, culinary delights) a bit excessive. I understand naming people is important and do see value in it, but restaurants, food, cities, it all just gets a bit distracting sometimes. Also, while I generally agree with all the points of view in the book, in a few instances, I found the logical link between the facts expressed and the zealous conclusions a bit weak E.g., Based on his own lists, the vocabulary for LGBTQ in Indian languages v/s English is far from what I would call rich. Similarly, his assertion that society was open to the LGBTQ community before the draconian colonial imposition of Section 377 is another case weakly and unconvincingly argued..
Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons. I absolutely loved the book and think it's nothing short of trailblazing.
I highly recommend it- buy + read it.
Two things particularly stood out for me. First, the content. I had never known the LGBTQ movement was so vibrant in India. Through his own experiences, Parmesh showcases the dynamic and thriving world of people making a difference. Secondly, and personally for me what stood out the most, Parmesh's eloquent and lucid use of Indian English in a book that's non-fiction. It's amazing how Parmesh holds his own even in the language he uses and firmly impresses the identity of Indian English in a book that is otherwise istensibly about LGBTQ identities.
On the other hand, I found the name dropping (of people, titles, places, culinary delights) a bit excessive. I understand naming people is important and do see value in it, but restaurants, food, cities, it all just gets a bit distracting sometimes. Also, while I generally agree with all the points of view in the book, in a few instances, I found the logical link between the facts expressed and the zealous conclusions a bit weak E.g., Based on his own lists, the vocabulary for LGBTQ in Indian languages v/s English is far from what I would call rich. Similarly, his assertion that society was open to the LGBTQ community before the draconian colonial imposition of Section 377 is another case weakly and unconvincingly argued..
Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons. I absolutely loved the book and think it's nothing short of trailblazing.
I highly recommend it- buy + read it.
October 3, 2020
Queeristan by Parmesh Shahani
Genre: Non-fiction
My rating: 4.5/5
Partly memoir and partly manifesto, Queeristan is an education and a path breaking one at that. Parmesh talks about his journey at Godrej and how he has come to identity with the cause of championing LGBTQIA inclusion at the workplace. He has laid out his hopes, dreams and aspirations towards this. He has also laid out the norms on how to make work places more inclusive. The book is preachy in parts which I felt is the need of the hour. For once, I say PREACH! I absolutely enjoyed reading about his views on intersectionality and training and absorbtion of more trans people at the work places. As a gay man who works in an MNC, I'm pleased to learn about the various encouraging developments taking place in this world. It gives me hope. The book is rich with names, examples, anecdotes and resources which helps. Few chapters look like a white paper due to the tremendous amount of facts and data being presented which I greatly appreciate. This is what will differentiate this book from the other anecdotal ones.
Parmesh has done a lot of ground work himself. He has laid down norms for workplaces who want to become LGBTQIA inclusive. This part is a complete, unapologetic manifesto. I'm sure corporates would lap it up as readily available help. The righteous indignation, the call for duty. Oh! This book has got it right! Highly, highly recommended.
Genre: Non-fiction
My rating: 4.5/5
Partly memoir and partly manifesto, Queeristan is an education and a path breaking one at that. Parmesh talks about his journey at Godrej and how he has come to identity with the cause of championing LGBTQIA inclusion at the workplace. He has laid out his hopes, dreams and aspirations towards this. He has also laid out the norms on how to make work places more inclusive. The book is preachy in parts which I felt is the need of the hour. For once, I say PREACH! I absolutely enjoyed reading about his views on intersectionality and training and absorbtion of more trans people at the work places. As a gay man who works in an MNC, I'm pleased to learn about the various encouraging developments taking place in this world. It gives me hope. The book is rich with names, examples, anecdotes and resources which helps. Few chapters look like a white paper due to the tremendous amount of facts and data being presented which I greatly appreciate. This is what will differentiate this book from the other anecdotal ones.
Parmesh has done a lot of ground work himself. He has laid down norms for workplaces who want to become LGBTQIA inclusive. This part is a complete, unapologetic manifesto. I'm sure corporates would lap it up as readily available help. The righteous indignation, the call for duty. Oh! This book has got it right! Highly, highly recommended.
March 14, 2021
I was looking for a holistic view on LGBTQ inclusion in India and I found Parmesh Shahani’s book just at the right moment. Parmesh combines facts, stories and passion to provide a template for building a more welcoming corporate India for the LGBTQ community. Parmesh charts the progress of the movement in India, the progress that has been made, as well as the legal struggles and social struggles on the road.
The book is handy guide and an excellent starting point, with a host of references for deeper dives at leisure. Parmesh provides a pretty comprehensive list of people and resources so the overall system can expand and be strengthened for impact.
He also builds a strong case the community in India, firmly placing the rights of LGBTQ within our own historical and social framework, and advocating for the right to love for all.
I came away deeply impressed, not just by the commitment of the community working on creating the support and working on legal and social change, but also by the individuals and corporate organizations who have chosen to publicly stand up and support the cause. I was especially impressed by Godrej’s willingness to invest in the India Culture Lab- an org that actively works on creating awareness and safe spaces for minority rights in country.
I would strongly recommend the book to anyone looking for a practical roadmap to drive inclusion- in the workspace, and in life.
The book is handy guide and an excellent starting point, with a host of references for deeper dives at leisure. Parmesh provides a pretty comprehensive list of people and resources so the overall system can expand and be strengthened for impact.
He also builds a strong case the community in India, firmly placing the rights of LGBTQ within our own historical and social framework, and advocating for the right to love for all.
I came away deeply impressed, not just by the commitment of the community working on creating the support and working on legal and social change, but also by the individuals and corporate organizations who have chosen to publicly stand up and support the cause. I was especially impressed by Godrej’s willingness to invest in the India Culture Lab- an org that actively works on creating awareness and safe spaces for minority rights in country.
I would strongly recommend the book to anyone looking for a practical roadmap to drive inclusion- in the workspace, and in life.
June 12, 2021
Queeristan: A world of Equality, A world of Inclusion and a world of unlimited possibilities for everyone belonging to every sexuality and gender identity there is. Sounds amazing. Isn't it?.
This book is a comprehensive guide on how India can become that. And I must say, This is the most amazing non fiction book I've ever read.
This book is divided into 5 parts:
1️⃣ This part chronicles author's journey as a gay man in India and how jugaad resistance can be used to bring a positive change everywhere. This part also tells you about how privilege and influence, whether small or big, can be used to create awareness.
2️⃣ This part gives historical and legal aspects of being LGBTQ in India, the terminology related to it and importance of families. This part is for every parent who is struggling to accept their child's sexuality and/or gender identity.
3️⃣ This part makes a point on how LGBTQ inclusion is a fundamentally good thing while also focusing on how it is a win-win situation as it can bring money, PR and Talent to an organization.
4️⃣ This part has a detailed 5 step guide on how an organization can be inclusive. This part includes everything, from inclusive policy making, to being an active advocate for LGBTQ issues.
5️⃣ This part shows how Queeristan is imagined and how India can be one. This part also gives a list of resources you can use to educate yourself more about the issue.
This book should be included in academic curriculum. Period.
This book is a comprehensive guide on how India can become that. And I must say, This is the most amazing non fiction book I've ever read.
This book is divided into 5 parts:
1️⃣ This part chronicles author's journey as a gay man in India and how jugaad resistance can be used to bring a positive change everywhere. This part also tells you about how privilege and influence, whether small or big, can be used to create awareness.
2️⃣ This part gives historical and legal aspects of being LGBTQ in India, the terminology related to it and importance of families. This part is for every parent who is struggling to accept their child's sexuality and/or gender identity.
3️⃣ This part makes a point on how LGBTQ inclusion is a fundamentally good thing while also focusing on how it is a win-win situation as it can bring money, PR and Talent to an organization.
4️⃣ This part has a detailed 5 step guide on how an organization can be inclusive. This part includes everything, from inclusive policy making, to being an active advocate for LGBTQ issues.
5️⃣ This part shows how Queeristan is imagined and how India can be one. This part also gives a list of resources you can use to educate yourself more about the issue.
This book should be included in academic curriculum. Period.
Read
July 2, 2021This book highlights steps/actions one could take to make their workplace queer-friendly. That being the focus of the book, the author has also included plenty of snippets from conversations he has had with a range of people: company CEOs, the workforce, authors, media persons, lawyers, queer allies, and many more.
The author's writing style is quite casual with quite some Hindi sandwiched in English, much like the way most of us speak.
The author has included queer-friendly policies from well-established companies and has dedicated an entire chapter that could be the action plan for anyone willing to even as much as propose making their workplace queer-friendly.
Though packed with too many positives, this book literally tells the reader (particularly the HR or the Manager or the CEO) to take action, which (according to me) might not have been the right approach.
The author's writing has much improved from his first book (Gay Bombay) and this one is a delight to read, understand, and implement in whatever way one wants and can.
The author's writing style is quite casual with quite some Hindi sandwiched in English, much like the way most of us speak.
The author has included queer-friendly policies from well-established companies and has dedicated an entire chapter that could be the action plan for anyone willing to even as much as propose making their workplace queer-friendly.
Though packed with too many positives, this book literally tells the reader (particularly the HR or the Manager or the CEO) to take action, which (according to me) might not have been the right approach.
The author's writing has much improved from his first book (Gay Bombay) and this one is a delight to read, understand, and implement in whatever way one wants and can.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2021
This is an incredibly useful book to have at your workplace. Not only will the Diversity leads find it useful, but it's also perfect to understand how to be an ally.
It's written in simple language, very clearly with Indian readership in mind making it accessible to a large audience.
I highly recommend this book to understand the LGBT+ space in India. Where it's been, what's happening, and very importantly how can we participate in making our spaces more inclusive.
It's written in simple language, very clearly with Indian readership in mind making it accessible to a large audience.
I highly recommend this book to understand the LGBT+ space in India. Where it's been, what's happening, and very importantly how can we participate in making our spaces more inclusive.
September 27, 2020
Detailed and super strong prose. Amazing references and brilliant story narrations of diverse group of humans. If one wants to implement LGBTQ friendly inclusive workplace. This is bible. A holy grail.
October 17, 2020
Nice book making a strong case of diversity in all groups. Often we are keen to be with people like us rather than people different. This books helps junk that idea and builds a case of how being with diff ppl help being better
June 9, 2021
Ah! How I have loved this book. A must read to understand the history, journey and celebration of the LGBTQ+ movement in India. Rich with stories, anecdotes, resources for further learning and reading and beautifully written, it's a book to have in your collection.
June 14, 2021
It was an insightful read with a great structure and personal narratives by Parmesh. Definitely a recommended read for all leaders in workplace and not just those heading the inclusion space.
October 27, 2021
This one is a wonderfully written story of the many journeys which go unheard of in the world of LGBTQ+ and a great starting guide for anyone looking for inspiration to make a change in the corporate setup. The good parts of the book is the practical approach to the entire pathway explored with a very relevant checklist and resource list at the end of the book. Also, the stories shared are across the geography of the Indian landscape and cuts across the various sections of the LGBTQ+ diaspora. The only thing that gets annoying is the constant name throwing and the superflus narratives about the connections and 'how I know them and how I helped them' that the author does. While it might be a part of the way he wears his pride on his arms and does help introduce the reader to a multitude of contributors in the field, beyond a point it does get to your nerves.
My biggest takeaway is the resource section with the books, journals, research papers, AV list and the list of support groups/NGOs working in the space to connect with, read, listen to stories and contribute.
My biggest takeaway is the resource section with the books, journals, research papers, AV list and the list of support groups/NGOs working in the space to connect with, read, listen to stories and contribute.
September 14, 2023
This book is about queer inclusion in the corporate world and Shahani draws a hopeful vision for us. But the irony is that capitalism is innately exploitative. The underlying question is: without liberation for all, how are you expecting the emancipation for queer people? This system is built on making profits from extracting surplus labor and exploiting workers. Shahni says he does not want crumbs, a proletariat only gets crumbs! He makes big promises that advocacy and lobbying can make workplaces queer-friendly, but to what extent? He argues that it helps companies make profits, profit=exploitation. Unfortunately, these companies are using the queer-mask to suppress other narratives of exploitation (such as overworking employees, underplaying, mass retrenchment, rampant sexual harassment at workplaces...) People like Shahani, consciously or otherwise, are corporate slaves.
September 10, 2021
"Go for it if you belong to the LGBTQ community (and even more so if you do not belong to the LGBTQ community)"
Basically, this book is for everyone!
And, it's packed with information that will help you to make or support a change in your organization. The book has memoirs, learnings, directives and ideas to make organizations inclusive.
A lot of time we want to make a change but we do not know where to begin. So, start with getting your hands on your organization's HR policy and follow the book. Yea, it's a long way but, atleast the chingari will start.
I loved the book and I loved Parmesh's style of writing. Parmesh is like that bitter straight forward best friend. He is honest and blunt in his writing.
Go for it !
Basically, this book is for everyone!
And, it's packed with information that will help you to make or support a change in your organization. The book has memoirs, learnings, directives and ideas to make organizations inclusive.
A lot of time we want to make a change but we do not know where to begin. So, start with getting your hands on your organization's HR policy and follow the book. Yea, it's a long way but, atleast the chingari will start.
I loved the book and I loved Parmesh's style of writing. Parmesh is like that bitter straight forward best friend. He is honest and blunt in his writing.
Go for it !
February 19, 2022
The Queer Bible for individuals and corporates.
The book revolves around five themes:
1. A quick brief of the Author's Journey
2. A history of the LGBTQ+ Movement in India
3. Stories of folks from the community and allies
4. Why LGBTQ Inclusion is important (I am waiting for the day we will not need this in books anymore)
5. Steps and Initiatives to get your company started or to think about things that can help your company progress in their journey to inclusion
Overall it was a great read which will keep you engrossed (I completed the entire book in a week)!
The book revolves around five themes:
1. A quick brief of the Author's Journey
2. A history of the LGBTQ+ Movement in India
3. Stories of folks from the community and allies
4. Why LGBTQ Inclusion is important (I am waiting for the day we will not need this in books anymore)
5. Steps and Initiatives to get your company started or to think about things that can help your company progress in their journey to inclusion
Overall it was a great read which will keep you engrossed (I completed the entire book in a week)!
January 7, 2022
I started reading this book as a part of some research that I was doing. I must admit that I was stuck at the introductory chapters for the longest time. But once I pushed past the initial drag, the book was very helpful. It helped me learn more about the different terms and labels, it helped me look closers as to what my unconscious biases are, and it certainly was a revelation into how difficult the LGBTQ+ community have it! Especially in India.
July 2, 2023
It's a difficult read, it would be better off as a series of books. Though, great compilation of resources at the end.
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