Guest Info
Born in Ajmer, Manvendra is the only son of Maharana Shri Raghubir Singhji Rajendrasinghji Sahib and Maharani Rukmini Devi. He has one sister, Minaxi Kumari, who is married into the princely family of Chenani in Jammu and Kashmir.
After the Indian government “de-recognized” Indian princes in 1971, Manvendra’s father lost the title of Maharaja and the privy purse. Despite adjusting to the new regime, Manvendra struggled with his sexuality, leading to an unconsummated marriage and a nervous breakdown in 2002.
He eventually came out publicly in 2006, facing backlash from his family and community. However, his courageous act also brought acceptance and support from many people.
In 2013, Manvendra married an American gay man named DeAndre Richardson, who his new father-in-law gave the “title” of Duke of Hanumanteshwar.
Throughout his journey, Manvendra has been involved in activism and served as the editor of the magazine Fun, which focuses on the gay male community.
About the Show
Explore the intricate journey of self-acceptance and liberation within a conservative society. Join Rajan Nazran in this captivating podcast as he delves into the profound reflections of HRH Manvendra Singh Gohil, a prince who defied societal expectations to embrace his true identity.
In this enlightening interview, the prince shares his experiences, highlighting the three imprisonments he had to overcome. From the constraints of royal protocols, the struggle of living a double life as a gay man, and the mental anguish associated with being a homosexual from a revered lineage, his story unravels the complexities of identity and societal norms.
India, the birthplace of the Kamasutra, presents a paradoxical reality where homosocial culture thrives amidst social rejection. Manvendra Singh Gohil delves into the impact of colonisation and the erasure of historical perspectives that have perpetuated the puritanical lens through which homosexuality is viewed today.
Listen as he opens up about his harrowing experience with conversion therapy, where he endured unimaginable torment in an attempt to cure his perceived “disease.” He reflects on the profound sadness of having his entire identity reduced to his sexual orientation.
Join us on this thought-provoking journey as we challenge societal norms, explore the intersections of sexuality and culture, and shed light on the importance of embracing one’s true self.
Produced by Global Indian Series for the Global Indian Network.
Script by Rajan Nazran
original idea: Rajan Nazran
Introduction music: (Sound Title) – by Steven F Allen
https://freesound.org/people/audiomirage/
https://soundclick.com/AuDioChosisStevenFAllenAuDioMiRage
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