Bombay Dost

Ashok Row Kavi

In 1990, Ashok Row Kavi, Sridhar Rangayan, and Suhail Abbasi established Bombay Dost. Kavi has extensive experience as a journalist and learned about advocacy by being involved in the ASHA project in Kamathipura as documentation officer for the ASHA NGO in Mumbai. The shift to gay activism was a natural progression of this experience, which brought to light the challenges faced by under-represented and marginalised groups.

Kavi refers to Bombay Dost's strategy as "walking activism," a phrase that highlights the magazine's pragmatic response to the pressing issues facing Bombay's gay community. This strategy reassures readers of the magazine's steadfast commitment to the community by offering essential assistance, such as helping individuals obtain P.O. boxes to protect their privacy when communicating.

Looking at the future of the queer movement in India, Kavi envisioned it as a revolutionary force that would continue to evolve and push. His vision is one of hope and optimism, a future where the queer community in India is not just accepted but celebrated for its diversity and resilience.