Renowned spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj has recently garnered widespread praise for his progressive stance on same-sex marriages. His enlightened perspective has left netizens applauding his open-minded approach.
The Changing Landscape of LGBTQ+ Rights in India
Discussions surrounding homosexuality in India have long spanned sociological, legal, and cultural domains. The journey of LGBTQ+ rights in the country has been marked by a complex interplay of traditional values, laws, and societal norms. Over the years, however, attitudes have gradually shifted towards acceptance and equality.
A major milestone came on September 6, 2018, when the Supreme Court of India decriminalized homosexuality. This landmark judgment provided legal recognition to same-sex relationships and paved the way for societal acceptance. In its wake, numerous individuals and religious organizations have voiced their support for LGBTQ+ rights, fostering a more inclusive environment.
Premanand Maharaj’s Progressive Stance
Adding a fresh perspective to the dialogue, Premanand Maharaj recently expressed his support for same-sex marriages in a viral video. The spiritual leader addressed a young man who sought his guidance after feeling pressured by his parents to marry. The man revealed his attraction to men, prompting Premanand Maharaj to advise him against ruining a woman’s life by entering into a marriage he could not commit to wholeheartedly.
The guru encouraged the young man to have an honest conversation with his parents, stating:
“Aap apni mummy papa se apni baat puri share karo. Aap byaah bilkul mat karo. Usko ghar mein baitha kar, uski zindagi narak mat banao.”
So much respect for Maharaj ji. This is our samaveshi hindu dharm not the intolerant version made popular by the self declared gatekeepers of our religion. pic.twitter.com/24eexsVBXx
— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) January 19, 2025
Premanand Maharaj emphasized the importance of accepting one’s true self and urged individuals to discuss their feelings openly with their families. He questioned the misplaced guilt of those unwilling to confront their parents but willing to jeopardize someone else’s happiness through a forced marriage.
Counseling for Parents
The spiritual leader also appealed to parents to empathize with their children’s emotions, emphasizing that inherent qualities cannot be changed through criticism or coercion. He highlighted the significance of mutual understanding within families, urging parents to support their children in leading authentic lives.
Premanand Maharaj further remarked that people must communicate their preferences honestly to avoid causing harm in relationships. He explained that forcing individuals into incompatible marriages only worsens the situation for both parties.
Netizens React to Premanand Maharaj’s Views
The video of Premanand Maharaj’s thoughts on same-sex marriages has gone viral, earning widespread admiration. Netizens have praised his liberal mindset and his efforts to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and contemporary realities.
He practices what he preaches which is a rarity- by not falling prey to sermonising religious behaviors but practising a sound karmyogi life to cleanse the soul which resides in the body with a clean calm mind.
His popularity hasn’t forced him down a path of seeking more fame or…
— Monica Jasuja (@jasuja) January 19, 2025
As far as I know most of the preachers from Hindu cmnty nvr spoke agnst ths issue
Bcz Hindus und that soul has no gender
But this happens in rarest of rare cases
The sm gendr rlws we see these days are forced & ppl think it’s cool so flw it’s not bcz of soul cnctn kind of love— Samyukta (@romitasingh47) January 20, 2025
As far as I know most of the preachers from Hindu cmnty nvr spoke agnst ths issue
Bcz Hindus und that soul has no gender
But this happens in rarest of rare cases
The sm gendr rlws we see these days are forced & ppl think it’s cool so flw it’s not bcz of soul cnctn kind of love— Samyukta (@romitasingh47) January 20, 2025
Amazed with the clarity with which he speaks even on matters which perhaps is considered Taboo.
Respect ❤️
— SHAILESH DEVADIGA 🇮🇳 (@shailrupz1) January 19, 2025
Dharmiks were always in sync with same sex relations. It was the abrahamic invaders who corrupted it on this land and ruined the fabric of the Dharmik civilization.
Decolonize Bharat from evil abrahamics.
— Roy (@DharmSatyaKarma) January 19, 2025
Other Hindu Spiritual Leaders on Same-Sex Relationships
Premanand Maharaj’s views resonate with those of other Hindu spiritual leaders who have also advocated for inclusivity. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, for instance, highlighted that homosexuality has never been viewed as a crime in Hindu culture and supported the Supreme Court’s decision to decriminalize it. Similarly, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev has repeatedly stated that sexual preferences are a personal choice and should not lead to prejudice or discrimination.
These progressive stances by prominent Hindu spiritual figures have played a crucial role in promoting acceptance and understanding of same-sex relationships within Indian society.
Premanand Maharaj’s thoughtful insights have struck a chord with many, sparking meaningful conversations about acceptance and equality. What are your thoughts on his advice? Share your perspective in the comments section below.