If you are a queer South Asian person in, from, or visiting the UK – you can contribute to the Queer South Asian Archive
BY NIC CROSARA, IMAGES PROVIDED
Did you know that Princess Catherine Duleep Singh was a lesbian? If you didn’t, it’s sadly unsurprising. All too often, queer history is erased, as are the stories of South Asians. This is why writer Sharan Dhaliwal is fighting to make sure this doesn’t keep happening.
After uncovering multiple hidden stories of queer icons from South Asia, as she moves to become a queer historian, Sharan knew that she wanted to create a living archive. She believes that everyone’s story should be recorded, for accuracy. So, she approached Bishopsgate Institute, and almost immediately, the Queer South Asian Archive was born.
The important part of the archive is that it’s for everyone. If you are a queer South Asian person, in, from, or even visiting the UK – you can contribute to it. And no, you don’t have to be “a person of note” or famous to do so. This isn’t about collecting, preserving and celebrating the history of a select few; it’s about representing what life was and is like for Queer South Asians in the UK from all walks of life.
So, it’s a living archive – which is an evolving and interactive collection of memories and moments, growing like a living body. They come together thanks to community contributions and reinterpretations. Sharan curates it, and everyone can contribute.
If you’re interested in adding something to it, look out for workshops which will be run at Bishopsgate Institute – all you have to do is bring your items with you. She will also be holding various screenings, archive tours and even a live podcast recording.
Live outside London? Not a problem – Sharan will be making trips around the UK to do more collections. Be sure to follow the archive on social media where there will be announcements.
This living archive offers the UK’s LGBTQIA+ South Asian community a vital space where their past and present are preserved, spotlighted and celebrated. Not only that, but it’ll allow future generations to learn their queercestors’ stories and know that Queer South Asians have always been here, and always will.
Be sure to follow the Queer South Asian Archive on Instagram: @queersouthasianarchive
Sharan is also the founder of Burnt Roti and Middlesex Pride. She is also the co-host of the Queer And (De)colonised podcast, which you can tune in to on YouTube, Spotify and Apple.
Want to learn more about Princess Catherine Duleep Singh and her family? Check out The Last Princesses of Punjab exhibition at Kensington Palace (which Sharan consulted on!). Find out more: hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/the-last-princesses-of-punjab
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