Where The Peacock Can Dance Free...

The legitimacy of homosexuality has passed but it is yet to change the perception of people towards LGBTQ in our country. People from the queer community are still termed as ‘different.’ They are bullied in the workplace, not given jobs as per their potential, they are often physically assaulted. A recent study reveals that only 37% Indians accept LGBTQ and same sex marriage. The rejection pushes queer people into an existential crisis to form a minor community. To deal with the crisis, many of them pick up social media, particularly virtual media where one could make easy videos to reach audience. Apps like TikTok, Musically, Dubsmash, LIKE, Vigo Video, Funimate, Roposo, Mojo, Instagram Reel help them to express their real self. Many have been successful in creating a solid fan base. They express their thoughts, act, dance, sing, talk, imitate popular actors. Many believe that it is the only way for them to survive the turmoil in which they stand. The increase of their presence on social media pushes them to live in a dual existence. They are different person at home, and somebody else on the app. These apps record a higher number of users from the queer community. While the app gives them a sort of a meaning, it also makes them addicted to the app. The addiction is due to the rejection faced in real life and the acceptance of audience on the app. They can live up to their real self, show what they are best at, and engage a large number of people. Many believe that they will not be able to live without these apps. ‘Where The Peacock Can Dance Free…’ is a record of the dreams which they wish to live in their real life but are forced to live on the apps.