It’s a blessing to live life on our own terms and be our original selves. That’s because not everyone gets this liberty. Even in 2021, several people who identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community still hide their identity, live in isolation, and are fighting for basic human rights. However, Amit Bittoo Dey is setting the precedent and inspiring many to be their true selves.
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The Kolkata-based androgynous model decided not to live a dual life. And since then, the photographer and director is breaking stereotypes, one photoshoot at a time.
Dey is credited with bringing gender fluidity into focus and has embraced it with a crown on his head. His impactful photo series ‘Coy Mistress’ depicting the dual lives and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community in India was widely appreciated, reported The Indian Express.
“I am working as an interior designer in Kolkata. I started as a fashion photographer and am an aspiring filmmaker working on small projects and digital content creation. Because androgynous modeling is not very popular in our country, I earn my bread and butter in other ways,” shared Dey.
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After breaking free from the societal burden weighing him down, Dey feels liberated.
“Finding androgynous modeling is like finding my solace,” Dey said in an earlier interview. “The creative and unconventional ideas that I put forward through my shoots is my passion. Something I have always wanted to do is dress up and convey my thoughts.” However, in the journey, Dey has met several judgemental and single-sighted people.
“If somebody sees a guy wearing a wig or a lipstick, he instantly first receives derogatory and cheap comments. And, then there are guys who during shows take our appearance as an open invitation and approach by giving signals like licking ears, touching and twisting waists.”
Even though Dey proudly accepts his identity, he’s afraid that he might get attacked for swimming against the tides.
“What I fear is being attacked for the unconventional lifestyle that I have chosen. Often, I have heard the remark “mardon ke naam pe kalank” from people. When a big movie got protested and a leading actress was threatened to be killed, the fear in me grew more because I have gone outside the set norms. I can be attacked too. And there will be nobody to protect me.”
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Dey grew up with two sisters. But surprisingly, he wasn’t the one borrowing clothes and makeup.
“It’s actually the other way round now. It’s them who borrow clothes and accessories from me. If you ask about our personal relationship, that is very open and strong. Whenever I need help with my bikini shoots, I frankly ask them to help me to shop.”
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Dey knows no gender and takes pride in what he is doing. Earlier, Pushpak Sen, a guy from Kolkata, posted pictures of himself rocking a saree and a bindi in the streets of Milan.
We hope there comes a time when people no more have to live dual lives, fight for their rights to live and love and no eyes shame them for being their true selves. More power to you Dey!