Indian Queer Artists
“India’s music scene is vibing with queer talent—from indie darlings to mainstream icons. A lot of queer artists start off in the indie space where they can fully be themselves, then level up to the Bollywood spotlight while still owning their identity”.
Sushant Divgikar (Rani Ko-HE-Nur): Driving Drag, Diversity & Desi Queer Visibility. 
In Indian pop culture, the name Sushant Divgikar (a.k.a. Rani Ko-HE-Nur) isn’t just a mouthful it’s a manifesto. Genderfluid, fearless, and flamboyant, they’ve worn many hats (and gowns): model, actor, singer, drag queen, activist, and performer par excellence. Born and raised in Bandra West, Mumbai, Sushant comes from a Goan-Konkani background and holds a master’s in Industrial & Organisational Psychology. In 2021, Sushant publicly came out as genderfluid, using pronouns he/she/they. In their words: “I am Shiv as well as Shakti… synergy of both energies.” True to their roots in activism, Sushant has called out tokenism in queer representation on TV and streaming platforms, urging more authentic, consistent inclusion not just brief, stereotypical cameos. They aim to make drag more accessible in India mentoring younger performers and challenging societal norms. Their journey is one of breaking ceilings, not fitting into them.
Crowning Glory: From Mr. Gay India to Global Recognition:
Sushant first stormed into the public eye in 2014 after being crowned Mr. Gay India. Representing the country at Mr. Gay World, they achieved an unprecedented feat securing three individual sub-awards (Congeniality, People’s Choice, Arts) a record for any Indian delegate. Drama, poise, and charisma not bad for a pageant debut.
In 2024, Rani Ko-HE-Nur became the first transgender artist to headline Suvarn Navratri in Surat performing for over 3 lakh people with their legendary dual-octave vocals and dynamic presence. A breakthrough moment for queer inclusion in traditional celebrations.
Television, Stardom & Golden Buzzers:
Their TV adventure spans from hosting gigs on UTV Bindass’s Big Switch Season 3 and Atyachaar Ka Punchnama, to competing on Bigg Boss 8. In 2018, as “Rani Ko-HE-Nur”, they made history on “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa”. The first drag queen contestant in India, they hit the golden buzzer, becoming the first LGBTQIA+ performer to reach the top 15 on that platform. Continuing to break ground, they participated in Queen of the Universe (2021) an international drag singing competition bringing Indian drag to a global stage.
Message & Melodic Firsts:
Sushant’s first solo single, “Diamond”, dropped independently in December 2020. Grounded in R&B and pop-rock, the song’s message is uplifting: “you are all diamonds,” regardless of your past or identity. The music video is equally textured, featuring real faces LGBTQIA+ folks, friends, family (including Sushant’s father!) not just polished models. Beyond that, they collaborated internationally, featuring in “Damn That Man” (2021) with Grag Queen.
Sushant Divgikar isn’t just performing they’re pioneering. As a genderfluid trailblazer, they’re not waiting for permission to exist, to amplify, to represent. Their craft spans from the glimmering stages of reality TV to traditional Navratri crowds, and each time, they’re expanding what it means to be Indian, queer, and visible.
Jay Anand: The Transcendent Journey of a Musician, Educator, and LGBTQ+ Advocate
In India’s evolving independent music scene, Jay Anand stands out as more than just a talented singer-songwriter and guitarist he is a visionary educator, a creative innovator, and a visible voice for the LGBTQ+ community. Based in Bengaluru, Jay’s journey is one of resilience, authenticity, and artistic excellence, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike.
Early Life and Musical Roots:
Born and raised in New Delhi, Jay’s love for music began almost instinctively. At the tender age of five, he taught himself to play the keyboard, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong pursuit of melody and expression. But Jay’s relationship with music has always been more than technical proficiency; it has been a language of identity and freedom. His early years were marked by an insatiable curiosity for sound, harmony, and storytelling through music.
The Making of a Musician:
Jay’s formal journey began at the Global Music Institute (GMI) in Noida, one of India’s premier contemporary music schools. Here, he strengthened his understanding of music theory, composition, and performance. Not stopping there, Jay eventually became a faculty member at GMI, contributing to the institute’s growth and helping nurture India’s next generation of musicians. To push his boundaries further, Jay moved to Los Angeles, where he joined the prestigious Musicians Institute (MI). At MI, he majored in guitar performance and minored in songwriting, gaining international exposure and refining his craft at a world-class level.
Music That Speaks to the Soul:
Jay’s artistic expression blends poetic lyricism with soulful acoustic melodies, making his music both intimate and universal. His discography reflects an evolution of sound and identity:
2017 – Faces of Love (Album) – Featuring the standout track “440 Volt Bulb”, this debut marked Jay’s early foray into storytelling through music.
2018 – Fool to Want You (Single) – A heartfelt exploration of longing and vulnerability. 2019 – Come Home (Single) – A song that captures both nostalgia and the search for belonging.
2022 – Pehli Baar (Single) – A turning point in Jay’s career, this release resonated widely with fans.
2022 – Title Track for Netflix’s Looop Lapeta -Jay’s mainstream breakthrough came when he lent his voice to the title track of this Taapsee Pannu and Tahir Raj Bhasin starrer, catapulting him into a broader spotlight.
Through these works, Jay has carved out a unique space in India’s indie music scene, one defined by honesty, emotional depth, and technical mastery.
Educator, Innovator, Visionary:
Jay’s contributions go beyond performance. In 2012, he founded the Crescendo Institute of Music, an inclusive space designed to nurture creativity and provide quality music education. He later launched Orange Juice Lab, a transdisciplinary R&D music consultancy that bridges gaps in India’s music ecosystem and fosters global collaboration. With over 15 years of experience, Jay is shaping the future of India’s independent music culture, mentoring artists, and innovating in music business strategy.
A Voice for Representation and Change:
As a trans man in India’s public music space, Jay uses his platform to amplify LGBTQ+ voices and normalize queer visibility in the arts. Through interviews, media appearances, and his music, Jay opens conversations around identity, acceptance, and authenticity. He represents a growing wave of Indian artists who are breaking barriers and redefining narratives making space not just for themselves but for countless others seeking representation. Jay Anand continues to evolve, experiment, and inspire. Whether through heartfelt songs, innovative education initiatives, or LGBTQ+ advocacy, his journey is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself.
“In a world where authenticity can often feel risky, Jay’s voice rings clear: be bold, be honest, be you”.
Jay Anand’s story is more than just a biography it’s a reminder that music is identity, identity is courage, and courage is contagious. From a five-year-old self-taught keyboardist to an internationally trained performer, educator, and advocate, Jay is shaping India’s independent music landscape while paving the way for greater inclusivity.
If you haven’t yet, give his tracks a listen and you’ll hear not just melodies, but stories of becoming.
Six Pack Band: India’s Trailblazing Transgender Pop Pioneers
In the vibrant tapestry of Indian pop culture, Six Pack Band stands as more than just a musical ensemble it’s a groundbreaking narrative of visibility, resilience, and change. As India’s first transgender band, this six-member group not only made music: they made history.
From Streets to Stage—The Inception of a Dream:
Curated by Shamir Tandon under the Y-Films (Yash Raj Films’ youth arm) banner, Six Pack Band was born from an audacious vision: to empower and represent transgender voices. In an extensive nationwide scouting effort, over 200 individuals were auditioned from streets, railway stations, and traffic signals across Mumbai. From that pool emerged six extraordinary talents: (Fida Khan, Asha Jagtap, Ravina Jagtap, Chandni Suvarnakar, Komal Jagtap, Bhavika Patil) Though naturally gifted, most had never benefited from formal music training due to societal exclusion. The band spent nine months in intensive rehearsals, refining their singing and dance skills to become a polished act.
Music with a Message – Breaking Stereotypes One Song at a Time:
Their debut single, “Hum Hain Happy”, is a peppy, Indianized cover of Pharrell Williams’ “Happy,” infused with hand-clapping rhythms inspired by cultural hijra traditions. The vibrant video, promising a world where hijras can be happy, struck a chord across social media and gathered over 1.4 million views in under a week.
They followed this with “Sab Rab De Bande”, featuring beloved singer Sonu Nigam, and went on to collaborate with several Bollywood icons Hrithik Roshan, Arjun Kapoor, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan on songs like “Ae Raju” and “Hila Pori La”.
Their impact didn’t stay local. In 2016, Six Pack Band received the Cannes Grand Prix Glass Lion for their transformative campaign around gender rights. They also performed at the International Festival of Creativity in Cannes in 2017 making them the only Indian act on that global stage.
They even lent their voices to a track— “Raula Paye Gaya”—for the Bollywood film Sultan, featuring Anushka Sharma and Salman Khan.
Faces Behind the Change Personal Journeys
Fida Khan — From Outreach to Center Stage
Previously an outreach worker with the Humsafar Trust, Fida dedicated her life to serving her community. Despite her dedication, she faced consistent exclusion in formal employment due to her identity. Music became not just a passion, but a new beginning. Through Six Pack Band, she found the dignity and expression she was denied elsewhere.
Ravina Jagtap — A Journey from Bhavesh to Belonging
Raised as Bhavesh, Ravina endured rejection from her conservative family. At the tender age of eight, she left home and found acceptance in a transgender community. Joining the band offered her something she never previously had visibility, pride, and a stage to belong as she finds her voice.
Komal Jagtap — Creating a New Life Against the Odds
Disowned by her family, Komal found refuge in Pune’s trans community. She sang at local festivities to survive, until the life-changing audition for Six Pack Band gave her a new path and Unexpected Journey. The band gave her not just a career, but a restored sense of dignity and even began the process of family reconciliation Rebuilding Identity.
Bhavika Patil — From Healthcare to Harmonies
As a nurse, Bhavika faced discrimination and stagnation at her clinic lack of promotions and biased treatment led her to leave. Music through Six Pack Band became her calling as Finding Purpose She discovered creative freedom and a sense of purpose she had never known.
Asha Jagtap — Acceptance in Song
Asha, while part of a transgender community, endured daily battles for acceptance music became her identity and expression. She dreams of taking Six Pack Band to international heights, infusing global music culture with authentic transgender voices.
Chandni Suvarnakar — Supported by Family, Empowered by Music Unlike many of her bandmates, Chandni had the privilege of supportive parents who celebrated her identity. Singing since childhood, Chandni’s passion and confidence shine through her natural talent.
The Six Pack Band didn’t just make music they made history. In a world where transgender voices were often silenced, they turned prejudice into poetry and stigma into song. Their melodies break barriers, their stories spark conversations, and their presence commands visibility. More than performers, they are pioneers reshaping narratives, redefining identity, and reclaiming pride. Through rhythm, courage, and authenticity, they’ve transformed music into a movement, inspiring countless others to be seen, be heard, and be celebrated.
Vardaan Arora: From Delhi to Dance Floors—A Queer Pop Trailblazer
Born in New Delhi and now based in New York City, Vardaan Arora has emerged as a soulful voice in contemporary pop singer-songwriter and actor who’s rewriting the narrative for queer South Asian artists in both music and screen.
He pursued a Drama degree at the esteemed NYU Tisch School of the Arts, following his passion for performance (Artistic Foundation).
Crossing Into Music his self-written debut single, “Feel Good Song” (First Release in 2016), burst onto the scene and quickly landed on Spotify’s Viral 50, capturing global attention with its infectious, summer-pop energy. As Growing Recognition In “2018”, Billboard spotlighted him among 12 LGBTQ musicians to discover during Pride Month.
Acting & Screen Presence:
Television & Film: After graduating, Arora landed a recurring role in Netflix’s Gypsy, followed by nods on NBC’s Blindspot, ABC’s Deception, and a supporting part in the 2021 reboot of Wrong Turn. He’s also been seen in Apple TV+ series City on Fire.
Heartbreak, Healing, & an EP:
Breakthrough EP (2020): Arora’s debut EP, Heartbreak on the Dance Floor, released amidst the pandemic, is an 80s-synth-pop gem. It blends glimmering beats with raw emotion and netted acclaim from both Billboard and Rolling Stone India.
Creative Process: In interviews, he’s emphasized letting inspiration flow naturally rather than forcing perfection resulting in authentic, unapologetic pop.
His Recent Releases & Evolution Latest Singles:
“Addicted to Sad” (2023): A vulnerable induction into healing, turning melancholy into relatable melodies.
“Pretty Please” & “Good Things” (2024): Two tracks from his upcoming EP, born out of frustration and crafted to radiate hope in uncertain times.
Authenticity, Representation & Mental Health:
Growing up closeted in India, Arora found freedom in pop music. He’s now an advocate for queer South Asian visibility and emotional openness (Queer Narrative). He openly shares his struggles with OCD and anxiety, using his music as a medium to translate complex emotions into relatable stories, making vulnerability feel human and universal.
Arora is more than a pop artist he’s a storyteller of the queer diaspora. His music blends vibrant beats with emotional depth, offering community and comfort. On screen and stage, he brings pride and presence, forging paths for Queer South Asians everywhere.
Kalki Subramaniam: The Voice of Courage and Creativity
Kalki Subramaniam is a renowned transgender activist, artist, actress, poet, and singer who has spent her life breaking barriers and redefining narratives. Known for her fearless advocacy and artistic brilliance, she is one of India’s most prominent voices for transgender rights and representation.
A Life of Activism and Art:
Born in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, Kalki’s journey has been one of resilience and determination. She holds two master’s degrees in International Relations and Journalism & Mass Communication and uses her academic background to amplify issues of gender equality and inclusion. In 2010, she founded the Sahodari Foundation, a pioneering organization that champions the social, political, and cultural rights of transgender people. Through Sahodari, she has empowered hundreds of trans women by providing opportunities for education, employment, and self-expression.
Kalki ventured into professional singing with her powerful album Songs of the Caravan, a collection of tracks that weave together identity, struggle, and hope. Through this album, she uses music as a medium of storytelling a way to voice the collective dreams and challenges of India’s transgender community.
Her songs are deeply personal yet universal, touching upon themes of acceptance, freedom, and love. By merging her activism with music, Kalki redefines what it means to be seen and heard in a society that has long silenced transgender voices.
An Icon of Representation:
Beyond music, Kalki has made a mark as an actress, appearing in Tamil films and documentaries that highlight queer experiences. She’s also a celebrated visual artist and poet, using multiple mediums to explore themes of identity, resilience, and empowerment. Through her work, Kalki continues to challenge stereotypes and amplify marginalized voices, making her a trailblazer not just for the transgender community but for all who fight for dignity and inclusion.
Kalki’s journey is more than her art, activism, or music it’s a testament to the power of authenticity. With her album Songs of the Caravan, she turns lived experiences into lyrical expressions, proving that visibility inspires change. By blending creativity with advocacy, Kalki has become a symbol of hope, pride, and possibility for countless individuals navigating their truths.
Voices of Change: Queer Artists Redefining India’s Culture
A new wave of LGBTQIA+ artists in India is transforming music, art, and entertainment turning personal struggles into powerful expressions of identity and pride. Together, these artists are breaking stereotypes, amplifying queer narratives, and reshaping India’s cultural landscape one song, performance, and story at a time.
