Help Support GALVA

[image]

Krsna Calls the Cows With His Flute
"I envy no one, nor am I partial to anyone. I am equal to all.
But whoever renders service unto Me in devotion is a friend,
is in Me, and I am also a friend to him."
(Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita, 9.29)
read more...

FEATURED ARTICLE

"Tritiya-Prakriti: People of the Third Sex"

By Amara Das Wilhelm

A detailed study into the Vedic concept of a third sex that defines homosexuality, transgender identity and intersexed conditions as a third category of nature apart from ordinary heterosexual males and females. The various types of third-gender people are all described, along with their social roles in Vedic society and accompanied with Sanskrit references and terminology. The original GALVA research that started it all!

[image]

Sri Ardhanarisvara
"Throughout Hindu and Vedic texts there are many descriptions
of saints, demigods, and even the Supreme Lord transcending gender
norms and manifesting multiple combinations of sex and gender."
(Tritiya-Prakriti: People of the Third Sex, p. 40)
read more…

MORE GALVA ARTICLES

"Hindu Deities and the Third Sex"

By Amara Das Wilhelm

A valuable resource guide containing thirty of the most common and interesting Hindu deities related to gender transformation and diversity. From Ardhanarisvara to Yellamma-devi, this article provides brief but thorough summaries of the various demigods, incarnations, and saintly personalities known to transcend gender norms. These deities, worshiped throughout India by millions of Hindus--including people of the third sex--are shining examples of the religion's vast diversity. Each entry includes a picture of the deity, how the deity is associated with gender variance, appearance pastimes, festival celebrations, and more.

"Modern Biology and the Concept of a ‘Third Sex'"

By His Holiness Bhakti Ananda Goswami

A thorough and scientific analysis of the various types of intersex and homosexual conditions as understood by modern science, and how such people should be treated according to moral and ethical standards in today’s society.

[image]

Srila Prabhupada and Allen Ginsberg
"...we are accepting everyone into this movement, regardless of sex, caste,
position, or whatever. Everyone is invited to come chant Hare Krsna.
This is Caitanya Mahaprabhu's munificence, His liberality."
(Srila Prabhupada-Lilamrta)
read more...

"Conversations Between Srila Prabhupada and Allen Ginsberg"

Excerpts from Srila Prabhupada-Lilamrta by Satsvarupa dasa Goswami

This article is filled with fascinating exchanges of friendship between a holy man from India and a homosexual activist of the Beat generation, which took place during the critical period of the 1960s. A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada sets the example on how devotees of the Lord should respect and befriend everyone, including openly homosexual people.

"Vaishnava-Dharma Is Very Liberal"

By Amara Das Wilhelm

A detailed explanation of the two types of dharma or religion based on the writings of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura. Naimittika or temporary dharma is concerned with the external rituals and regulations of religion, while jaiva or Vaishnava dharma addresses the eternal nature of the soul, stressing compassion and the inclusion of all living beings. This article explains how we must give precedence to the latter by emphasizing the person (jaiva-dharma) over the ritual (naimittika-dharma).

Gender Diversity in Nature
"Just as there are many incredible displays of sex and gender
variety among Hindu deities, so also nature displays an amazing
array of sex and gender diversity within the animal kingdom."
(Tritiya-Prakriti: People of the Third Sex, p. 100)
read more...

"A Third Sex Around the World"

By Amara Das Wilhelm

A fascinating look into the many different third-gender expressions found around the world and throughout time. From the aikane of Polynesia to the zenana of Pakistan, this article demonstrates how homosexual, transgender and intersex beings—both human and animal—have existed as a part of the natural world since time immemorial.

"India’s Slow Descent into Homophobia"

By Amara Das Wilhelm

A historical perspective on homosexuality in India and how its formerly permissive and liberal society was corrupted by caste consciousness and artificially imposed Islamic and Victorian “values.”

[image]

Lord Krsna Crossdressed as Syamali*
“When Radharani and I had quarreled, and She was angry with Me,
I disguised Myself as a woman [Syamali] and appeared before Her.”
(Sri Ujjvala-nilamani, p. 204)
read more…

"Same-Sex Love and Affection in the Spiritual World"

By Amara Das Wilhelm

This article offers a fascinating collection of quotes from Gaudiya Vaishnava literature describing intimate same-sex relationships in Krsna’s pastimes that includes the cowherd boys love for Krsna, the gopis love for Radha, crossdressing, ecstatic feelings of separation, levels of bhava, etc.

"Moving Forward on Contemporary Gay Issues"

By Amara Das Wilhelm

In this section we examine several important issues that need to be addressed within contemporary Hinduism and Vaishnavism, including gays living in the ashrama, gay-oriented religious organizations, and the question of same-sex marriage.

[image]

Lord Caitanya as Radha and Krsna Combined
"Being very satisfied, Lord Caitanya smiled and showed
Ramananda Raya His real form as the combination of Sri
Radha and Krsna."
(Teachings of Lord Caitanya)
read more...

"Is Your Temple ‘Gay-Friendly’?"

By Amara dasa

This article is an appeal to the Gaudiya Vaishnava community to stop discriminating against gay members and guests. It offers five guidelines to follow that will easily enable any temple or preaching center to truly become "gay-friendly."

*"Prema Samput" copyright Syamarani dasi (www.bhaktiart.net); painted under the guidance of Srila Bhaktivedanta Swami Narayana Maharaja (www.purebhakti.com)

WELCOME TO GALVA!

What is GALVA?
Purposes of Incorporation
Join GALVA
How to Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Homosexuality & Hinduism
God Loves Everyone
Helpful Tips