Your
Journey In Career:
I started my career at 24/7. Since then, I have moved up the ladder and am now working as a Global
Training Lead for Customer Support.
Being
A Part Of The LGBTQI Community & Overcoming Challenges:
I
was pretty much gay during the weekends whereas over
the weekdays, I constantly made sure that I hid my gayness during my working
hours, thinking it shouldn't affect my career. I was living a dual life which
was frustrating, but very much required. This hiding continued for a couple of
years and then one day I decided that during the New Year's Eve of 2006 I will
let my friends know. Initially my male friends were upset because I did not
tell them earlier, but they were also very proud that I took such a bold step to
be who I am and live my life. By the time I came out to my parents, I was very
comfortable with my sexuality, but I didn't have the heart to tell them that I
was gay. During those days, I used to tell my mom that I don't want to get
married. Their emotions were all over once I told them. Parents were angry,
sobbing, upset and shocked. I maintained my composure all this while, but at
times cried as I couldn't see my parents cry because of me. Despite the drama,
I felt great relief and happiness after breaking the news to my parents.
On
Becoming Mr. Gay World India And My Advice To Others:
On July 2018, I read about the Mr. Gay World India competition. I didn't think I'd have any chance at it but thought it would be an excellent opportunity for me to reach out to many more people and break stereotypes like age, color, working profession and region (as I am a South Indian). So, I applied for it. I gave it my all and had a great time in those three days and I won the title. Later, I represented India at the Mr. Gay World 2019 event held in Cape Town, South Africa and was placed among the top 10 finalists. I take great pride to be the winner and with this attention I want to do more for the community. My advice to others would be to be strong, be bold, be confident, be optimistic & never lose HOPE. Accept yourself completely for who you are, and the world will accept you.