(The Quint is republishing this story in the run-up to the anniversary of Section 377 being read down. It was originally published on 27 July 2019.)
Mumbai based LGBTQ+ activist and entrepreneur, Monisha Ajgaonkar collaborated with Mumbai's very own Drag Queen, activist and artist Sushant Divgikr to create a stunning ‘coming-of-age’ photo series called "Blossom.”
The photo series sees the muse, Sushant, transitioning from a young boy scared to come out because of societal pressure, to finally becoming the Diva he is and embracing his true identity.
Since it’s The Pride International Month and transgenders are being mistreated worldwide, I wanted to raise a voice for them and show support. I want them to know that we are there for them and they can be whatever they like, regardless of what society wants. With this photo series, I want to portray that people can be themselves and be comfortable in their own skin. Just be the queen you are.Monisha Ajgaonkar
The photo series begins with a young and naked boy scared to show his face to the world with dead branches on his back. He then tries facing the world but is still covering his face as he is not comfortable revealing who he really is.
And then, his face reveals little by little, still half covered with flowers as he slowly tries to embrace his identity.
The photo series gradually shows flowers moving away from the young man’s face, now showing him half-face with make-up. But wait, he is not yet the real Diva.
And finally, the young boy is no more scared and is seen in a completely different avatar showcasing his true self in a stunning rainbow outfit.
All hail this Queen!
Blossom concept and planned by - Monisha Ajgaonkar From The Photo Diary
Photography by - Monisha Ajgaonkar From The Photo Diary (@Thephotodiary3)
Muse - Sushant Divgikr (@sushantdivgikr) (@mangofilmsandproductions)
Makeup artist - Ankit Anil Trivedi (@ankitmakeuparts85)
Stylist - Mayuri Nivekar (@mayuri_1192)
Assisted by - Noyonika Nalavade (@nalavade._.noyonika)
Outfit - Swapnil Shinde (@officialswapnilshinde)
Production - Akash Shah, Aryan Gupta & Netram Shah (Instagram- @Thephotodiary3)
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