Mumbai - Post Report Question and Answers
Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
India is not a tolerant country towards LGBTQIA+, although Mumbai is seen as the most progressive. While it’s possible to be out at certain bars/clubs/social events, it is still considered taboo. According to friends, dating can be difficult since many individuals are not out to their families (and live with said families) or are married to the opposite sex in an arranged marriage. - Apr 2024
not sure. - Jul 2023
For the most part, yes. Although there are not a lot of locals who are out and LGBT, expats do not seem to have issues, despite being a conservative country. There are many organizations working on LGBT rights, and there is even a film festival dedicated to these issues (Kashish Film Festival). I’m sure that things happen that I am not aware of, as a non-LGBT person. - May 2023
There seems to be a strong community, but not completely visible. - Feb 2023
No. Most will stare at you for the slightest differences. - Aug 2021
India is still a conservative society, but Mumbai is the most progressive place to be in India. - Mar 2019
No. - Jan 2019
I don't think so, although Mumbai is supposedly more liberal, there is still a big taboo here. - May 2018
No. Indians are still conservative, and the only non-gender conforming behavior accepted is the hijras,transgender women who beg on street corners. Gay Indians sometimes feel cornered so they move into that lifestyle, often engaging in the sex trade.
While Mumbai has a small gay community, most Indians are either closeted or have been rejected by their families. There isn't a single gay bar in the entire city, just a once-a-month party that changes venues each month. In short, don't expect a dating scene here, just a few other expats. - Jun 2017
OK from what I hear. Even though it's technically illegal, they give foreigners a free pass. - Aug 2015
Homosexuality is illegal in India, and it's possible to have a problem. That said, I know several gay men, and none of them has had any serious issues that I know of. I'm pretty sure they have to be circumspect in public, though, so I'm sure they sacrifice some openness for safety/passing unnoticed. - Nov 2014
There is a gay scene but this is not Chelsea. It's very closeted but it does exist. India still does not seem very open to gay people but I don't think they really get it yet either so there isn't hardcore homophobia in Mumbai. - Mar 2014
No. India has officially banned 'unnatural contact'. - Feb 2014
It's the best in India for sure, but there are no exclusively gay bars. There are nights at bars that will have a gay night. - Aug 2013
Gay singles seem to struggle, as homosexuality was only decriminalized in 2009. Homophobia is rampant. But I don't think they struggle any more than straight singles, to be honest. I know some gay couples who live together without problems. - May 2013
I haven't heard any LGBT expats complain. Indians, on the other hand, may face discrimination. (Ironically, many Indians believe it is good luck to give money to begging transvestites and transsexuals, yet many Indian gays still feel the need to hide their orientation.) - Feb 2013
India just overturned its anti-gay laws, but the culture is still very conservative. I do know gay people who are able to date here. - Dec 2010
Okay, and better than other Indian cities, but all the negatives for singles apply here as well. - Aug 2008
Not sure. - Jul 2008
