Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, a descendant of a 650-year-old dynasty, graces the Love Lingo Podcast as the first royal to openly embrace and discuss his identity as a gay man, challenging traditional notions of royalty. In this captivating episode titled “Redefining Legacy and Breaking Generational Cycles,” Prince Manvendra engages in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with hosts Arsala Qureishi and Jas Sagu. Together, they delve into a variety of impactful life topics, with Manvendra sharing his unique perspectives, redefining legacy, and breaking generational barriers with his trailblazing openness.
Addressing the widely discussed controversy surrounding Ramdev Baba’s controversial claim to ‘cure’ homosexuality and make them ‘Straight’. Prince Manvendra shared, “I was surprised at that time, and I felt that sex education is essential in our country, not just to accept the sexuality but also come out of myths and misconceptions about sexuality. Sexuality can be different, it’s about far more than reproductive health—it’s about fostering understanding, breaking taboos, and creating a safe space for children to explore questions about themselves. In our country there are so many big-name schools and institutions but there are no improvements, otherwise none can ask this type of query. Without this openness, we leave room for ignorance and abuse to thrive.”
He emphasized the subject of generational trauma and its impact on contemporary life, stating, “What I believe is that how you carry yourself and accept who you are is truly important. While generational trauma and past experiences certainly shape us in some cases, the first step is confronting the truth. Truth always prevails. So, regardless of whether you identify as gay, lesbian, or anything else, the most important thing is to first accept and embrace your true self.”
Sharing insights into his journey and struggles, he revealed, “Before 2006, my life was like a prison trapped, unable to live authentically or embrace who I truly was. Coming out in 2006 I broke my silence and got the courage to vocalize and free myself. It was shameful that we need to break the taboo every time and we need to struggle for our sexual existence in India, even as we hail from the land of the Kama Sutra.”
Looking back on his unsuccessful marriage, he candidly shared, “I entered marriage without a true understanding of myself, molded by a society that offered little room for comprehension or dialogue. However, it soon became evident that I felt no sexual attraction towards her. We amicably decided to separate, recognizing that continuing the marriage was futile. This experience underscored the importance of candid communication.”
Revealing his love-life, he stated “I have my soulmate, I am married to an American man and now we are leading a happy life. Both of us are working on so many social causes. I believe I’m a Human Rights Activists not just an LGBTQ+ Activists. Through my Movement: Search Ends Inclusion Impact, I aspire to create a lasting impact in the lives of people.”