Unruly Figures: Queerness, Sex Work, and the Politics of Sexuality in Kerala

The media landscape of Kerala is characterized by vibrant kiosks filled with magazines and colorful film posters, contributing to a sexually charged public space rich in political protests. One notable event is the 2014 “Kiss of Love” campaign that captured national attention, featuring images of activists kissing in public which led to widespread controversy and police involvement. This examines cultural practices that shape the societal perceptions of sexual figures, focusing on the representations of sex workers and lesbians in the public sphere.