A graphic narrative inspired by Ruth Vanita’s essay,
" Born To Two Mothers, The Hero Bhagiratha "
- An adaption of a version of the story mentioned in the same essay -
(This was created during my internship at Gaysi, an online blog which
strives to provide a safe space to desis who identify as LGBTQ)
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Indian mythology has been featuring heterosexual love stories since time immemorial but
very few know about this sacred narrative from the 14th Century. A story of two queens and
co-wives who, after becoming widowed, become lovers and give birth to the hero Bhagiratha.
Challenges :
1. To come up with a modern day context that seamlessly blends into the mythological story.
2. To gently highlight the key points about this specific version of the story, i.e. the agency
of choice and the emphasis on erotic power as the sacred power.
Initial Sketches :
"Myths can't be translated as they did in their ancient soil. We can
only find our own meaning in our own time." - Margaret Atwood
Final Artwork :
Edited by Priya Gangwani (Editor, Gaysi)
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NOTE : This graphic narrative was originally published by Gaysi as a part of their BI series which
celebrated diverse perspectives and stories on bisexuality in honour of BIVISIBILITY DAY (23rd September)
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THANK YOU
. . .
