Sovereign Futures in Focus: The Marriage Equality Movement in South Asia, Particularly India

How do social movements respond to geopolitical uncertainties while mobilizing aspirations for progressive social change? This article explores these dynamics through an empirical analysis of India's marriage equality movement, set against the backdrop of South Asia's evolving geopolitical landscape. As India experiences economic growth and increasing international prominence, it also faces a degree of isolation due to questions about its legitimacy as a nation-state. Within this context, the marriage equality movement does not merely adopt global ideas of equal rights for same-sex couples; instead, it redefines the concept of 'equality' for sexual minorities in line with India’s aspirations for equal standing on the world stage. By intertwining LGBT rights claims with national aspirations, the movement becomes a powerful symbol of India's unique vision, distinguishing it from Western perspectives. This article offers fresh insights into the intersections of social movements, imagined futures, geopolitics, and gender and sexual rights, contributing to a deeper understanding of these critical issues.