Manvendra Singh Gohil, India’s “Gay Prince,” Battles Same ‘Therapy’ — Including Electroshock Treatments — that Hurt Him in His Youth

New York, N.Y. — Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, the Crown Prince of Rajpipla in Gujarat, India, made headlines in 2006 when he came out as the country’s first openly gay prince. His journey was anything but easy.

After coming out, the prince faced severe backlash, including enduring years of torturous “Conversion” therapy, which included electroshock treatments. His family publicly disowned him, reflecting the deeply entrenched societal stigma against LGBTQ+ individuals in India at the time.

Despite these challenges, Prince Manvendra has become a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in India.

He is now actively campaigning to make conversion therapy illegal in the country, aiming to prevent others from enduring the same harmful practices.

Additionally, his work extends to raising awareness about HIV prevention and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals who face discrimination and persecution.

His story is a powerful example of resilience and dedication to the cause of human rights, as he continues to fight for legal and social reforms that will ensure a safer and more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ people in India.

Campaigning to Make “Conversion” Therapy Illegal in India (Aug. 27, 2023)