Exclusive: Ankush Bahuguna: “Wearing Makeup Publicly As Cisgender Man Was Easy For Me As Compared To Non-Binary People”
Men wearing makeup has been such a huge taboo in India, but we cannot ignore the fact that times have changed. In an exclusive interview with Hauterrfly, popular content creator Ankush Bahuguna opened up about the challenges and perceptions surrounding men wearing makeup in society and what’s his take on it. Ankush also highlighted the complexities of breaking gender stereotypes and discussed important points such as privilege and societal expectations.
View this post on Instagram
Also Read: Exclusive: Sonam Kapoor Gives A Sneak Peek Into Her Pregnancy Skincare Routine: “It’s Important As A Mom To Keep Things Simple”
Ankush Bahuguna On Wearing Makeup As A Man
Ankush Bahuguna acknowledged that while he faced certain levels of trolling for wearing makeup publicly, he recognized that individuals from marginalized communities, such as transgender, non-binary, and genderfluid individuals, often endure far more severe harassment and bullying. He said, “There are lot more people who have broken these stereotype. For me, it was much easier because see, it’s the cisgender men who basically made the rule that, this is what women can do and this is what men can do, right? Now, if one of the many cisgender men gets up and starts wearing makeup, he will get more acceptance because people listen to cisgender people more.” He further added how he wants to acknowledge the fact that when it comes to breaking gender stereotypes, other communities have done way more work than cis-gender people while highlighting that trans and non-binary people have put on makeup which has led to severe bullying and harassment as well. “The trolling happens, but in there cases it’s a lot more. But I have to acknowledge that when it comes to breaking gender norms and gender stereotypes there are communities who have done way more work than cisgender. Like they say – they walked so, we could run. It’s the same situation here. People think I’m doing something great but the fact is that many people have done it before me but no one heard them, unfortunately,” added Ankush.
View this post on Instagram
Ankush Bahuguna On Men Dictating What Is Manly And What Is Not
The conversation also delved into the societal constructs of masculinity and femininity. Ankush Bahuguna observed that many men struggle with the concept of masculinity being defined in opposition to femininity, which leads to a reluctance to embrace traditionally feminine practices like makeup. He said, “I feel like men have a strong dislike in general for other men doing makeup because I feel like for, for many, many years now, men have always tried to define masculinity as the opposite of femininity. ” Ankush further added, ” Getting a haircut like Virat Kohli, getting a beard styled all that is okay for them. But, like, applying concealer is not, they associate that with women. Men are constantly trying to be the opposite of women, and focusing on all the wrong things. I think that’s why they find it very odd when men stand up and start doing makeup. They’re like, this is a girl’s job, why are you doing it?”
View this post on Instagram
Also Read: Girls, Did You Know Crying Over Your Ex Not Only Gives You Glowing Skin But Also Plump Lips? Here’s How
Ankush Bahuguna On Pick Me Behaviour
Ankush Bahuguna further discussed the phenomenon of “pick me” behavior among men, where individuals strive to conform rigidly to societal norms of masculinity in an effort to gain approval or validation. He highlighted the irony of men dismissing feminist discourse while simultaneously engaging in behaviours that perpetuate gender stereotypes and inhibit progress towards gender equality.
View this post on Instagram
Ultimately, Ankush Bahuguna advocated for a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of gender roles, where individuals can express themselves authentically without fear of judgment or discrimination. He emphasized the importance of embracing diversity and challenging societal norms to create a more accepting and equitable world for all individuals, regardless of gender identity or expression.
First Published: April 26, 2024 5:06 PM
