Sukamal Das' Photography Series Is A Curious Exploration Of Queer Identity

‘Oriental Bengali brown boy’ Sukamal Das’ photography is a daring expedition of sexual identity and its portrayal. His work captures striking compositions of the nude body, and captivates the viewer in a whirlwind of expressive imagery. We had the chance to talk to Das about his work and the inspiration behind it, and here’s what he had to say.

Tell us about your photographic series.

This series of photographs deals with the closeted desires of a queer person. Every day he struggles with his daily routine to earn his bread and butter in different spheres of work but inside he wishes something which society shunts away. He loves to play the Radha of his imaginary Krishna. He wishes to be courted, teased, consummated by him but alas every dawn he realises that the pleasure of his fanciful wishes turns into agony unbearable again and again.

‘HG loves’ the manner in which the series normalises the desires of an LGBTQ individual, and provides for equal representation regardless of their orientation.

What are some of your biggest inspirations over the years of your artistic career?

Highly inspired by the works of Nan Goldin, Peter Lindbergh and Prabudhha Dasgupta.

Describe your creative process and the purpose with which you create?

I love to explore the emotional aspects of human behaviour through artistic nudes and how human body interacts with the surrounding background and try to compliment each other’s character.

Photography series, by Sukamal Das.

If you could propose and lead a project with the Indian Government, what would it be?

I would like to work with any project which sensitize the queer community against discrimination of POZ individuals.

(Note - POZ is a term embraced by those who are HIV positive, particularly common in the gay community)

Which is your favourite piece of work of your own & why?

The photograph titled “Haunted by the Memoirs” is one of my favourite because it captures the stark contrasting essence of present raw Desi genx against its bygone past.

On a personal note -

One track you’re currently listening to?

Gulon mein rang bhare from Haider.

A project you wish you were a part of?

Love to be part of kinkmag, boyswillbeking and fuuckingyoung projects.

Your favourite midnight munchies?

Mishti doi.

Your greatest vice?

Being flirtatious maybe. Ha ha.