Reclaiming Culture and Queer Identity

Before colonisation, South Asia celebrated gender fluidity and queer identities through its ancient texts, art, and traditions.

Beyond Taboos: Representing Us exhibition pays tribute to that legacy, that queerness has always existed, while showcasing the resilience and vibrant joy of current South Asian queer ancestors alive today. 🏳️‍🌈🪔🌙

Proudly presented by Aunty's House in collaboration with Migrant Maharanis , this striking portrait exhibition highlights six queer South Asian creatives in Aotearoa. Their unique identities come to life through powerful storytelling and layered digital collages by Migrant Maharanis, blending personal narratives with rich cultural symbolism 🎨.

Hosted in📍 Satya Chai Lounge, smack bang in the centre of the beloved South Asian community hub in Sandringham, Tāmaki Makaurau, which will truly set the stage for this reclamation of queer South Asian heritage.

Please Note: This exhibition is freely available to view anytime from the 5th - 25th of February, open to public access during Satya Chai Lounge Sandringham business hours (Monday - Sunday, midday - 9:30 pm).

Exhibition Highlights ✨

🥂 Launch Party: Tuesday 4th February, 6 - 9 pm, FREE* with RSVP
ft. vibey atmosphere celebrating our existence & light nibbles from Satya Chai Lounge *Priority for those who identify as BIPOC and Queer, but welcome to allies who agree to Aunty's House Safer Space Agreements.

🍲 Kai&Kōrero | Thursday 13th February, 6 - 9 pm, FREE** with RSVP
Queer South Asian Dinner ft. Q&A critical discussion with some of the creative team + featured artists, connections and kai from Satya Chai Lounge **Only for those who identify as South Asian and Queer

Featured South Asian Queer Artists:

Amita Kala [She/Her]
Shawn Wimalaratne [They/Them]
Adam Banoori [They/Them]
Serena Mani [She/Her]
Sonya Prabha [She/Her]
Amandeep Rakhra [He/Him]

Creative Team:

Shruthi Priya Balaji [She/Her]
Anndivya Ram [She/Her]
Amita Kala [She/Her]

Part of Auckland Pride Festival 2025 running throughout Pride Month in February, this exhibition reclaims cultural pride and connection, offering a space to explore the intersections of queerness and South Asian identity.

We can’t wait for you to join us in witnessing this unforgettable celebration of history, culture, and modern queer joy!

Proudly presented by:

Exhibition brought to life with thanks to:

Auckland Pride Empowerment Initiative

Foundation North Asian Art’s Fund