5 LGBTQ Influencers to Follow on Instagram

Social media has become a powerful platform for marginalised communities to amplify their voices; Instagram, in particular, has played a vital role in empowering individuals and communities to share their stories with the world. For the LGBTQIA+ community, influencers on Instagram have redefined representation, creating safe spaces for dialogue, self-expression, and advocacy. These influencers use their platforms to showcase their unique journeys, inspire others, and challenge societal norms. Here’s a closer look at five extraordinary LGBTQ influencers you should follow on Instagram for their meaningful content, activism, and sheer courage in celebrating authenticity.

LGBTQ Influencers to Follow on Instagram for Inspiration and Representation

Sushant Divgikar / Rani KoHEnur

Sushant Divgikar, popularly known as Rani KoHEnur, is a powerhouse of talent. Divgikar was born in the western suburbs of Mumbai. With over 3.3M followers on Instagram, they are much more than performer; they are advocate and artist. Sushant’s Instagram content is vibrant with drag performances, fashion experiments, motivational insights, and glimpses into their life as an openly queer individual.

Sushant rose to fame in 2014 when they were crowned Mr. Gay India and went on to represent the country at Mr. Gay World. However, their impact didn’t stop there. As Rani KoHEnur, they broke barriers as the first drag queen in India to compete in a singing reality show, earning the golden buzzer on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa in 2018. Their stellar performance placed them in the top 15, cementing their place in Indian entertainment history.

Beyond the spotlight, Sushant uses their platform to highlight LGBTQIA+ rights, self-love, and inclusivity issues. Whether dazzling in elaborate costumes or speaking passionately about equality, Sushant’s Instagram is an ode to authenticity, creativity, and resilience.

Sushant Divgikar / Rani KoHEnur on Instagram: @sushantdivgikr

Number of Followers: 3.3M

Also Read: Ankush Bahugana creates a golden glittery look for Sushant Divgikar

Alok Vaid-Menon

Alok Vaid-Menon is a global writer, performance artist, and activist who uses their Instagram platform to challenge conventional ideas about gender and identity. With over 1.5 million followers, Alok’s content is a thought-provoking blend of poetry, fashion, and advocacy, making them one of the most influential voices in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Alok’s work focuses on dismantling restrictive gender norms and celebrating individuality. Their 2020 book, Beyond the Gender Binary, is a cornerstone of their advocacy, offering profound insights into the lived experiences of trans and non-binary individuals. Having performed in over 40 countries, Alok’s artistic endeavours are a testament to their ability to blend art and activism seamlessly.

Their Instagram feed is a vibrant representation of their philosophy. Bold and colourful fashion statements that challenge gendered clothing norms to heartfelt posts about transgender resilience. Their words often touch on the challenges of gender non-conforming, offering solace and encouragement to others navigating similar journeys. Vaid-Menon’s work tackles the violence faced by trans and non-conforming gender individuals, advocating for liberation from what they perceive as restrictive standards of gender identity. They promote the importance of gender neutrality, bodily diversity, and the right to self-determination.

Alok’s voice reminds us of the importance of self-expression, compassion, and breaking free from societal constraints, making their Instagram account an essential follow for anyone seeking to expand their understanding of gender diversity.

Alok Vaid Menon on Instagram: @alokvmenon

Number of Followers: 1.5M

Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju

Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju is an actress, medical doctor, and transgender activist. With over 392K followers on Instagram, her content mixes activism, education, and personal storytelling, offering followers an intimate look into her life and advocacy work. Trinetra first gained prominence as one of India’s first transgender individuals to document her gender transition publicly. She used platforms like YouTube and Instagram to share the medico-socio-legal aspects of her transition, including the emotional and physical changes she experienced. Her honest storytelling has helped many queer and trans individuals navigate similar journeys while raising awareness about the lack of queer-affirming healthcare in India.

Trinetra’s Instagram is a treasure trove of educational resources, from addressing gender dysphoria to advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights. Additionally, her Rainbow Pill List is a crowdsourced database of queer-friendly doctors and has become a lifeline for many. Trinetra’s work extends beyond social media. She frequently conducts sensitisation sessions for institutions, creating ripples of change. Among the many LGBTQ influencers, Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju is a must-follow.

Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju on Instagram: @trinetra

Number of Followers: 392K

Also Read: A Kaleidoscope of Queer Expression by Indian LGBTQ+ Artists

Nakshatra Bagwe

Nakshatra Bagwe is an award-winning filmmaker, actor and India’s first openly gay brand ambassador. With an Instagram following of 355K, he uses his platform to tell stories that challenge societal norms and celebrate LGBTQIA+ identities.

Nakshatra’s journey as a filmmaker began with short films focusing on queer themes, including Logging Out, which explored LGBTQIA+ issues in the South Asian context. His work gained international recognition during the Queer India European Tour, where his films highlighted the challenges and triumphs of queer individuals in India.

Nakshatra has expanded his influence far and beyond by helming The BackPack Travels @thebackpacktravels and ShoutOUT Party @shoutoutpartyofficial. These ventures focus on LGBTQIA+ representation in travel and social events, creating inclusive spaces for community members.

On Instagram, Nakshatra shares glimpses of his creative projects, candid moments from his life, and thought-provoking posts advocating for equal rights. His content reflects his multifaceted identity as an artist, activist, and entrepreneur. Nakshatra’s dedication to representation and storytelling inspires those seeking visibility and empowerment in their journeys.

Nakshatra Bagwe on Instagram: @nakshatra.bagwe

Number of Followers: 355K

Also Read: Breaking the Chains of Silence: Why the Progressive Words of Premanand Maharaj Matter

Nitasha Biswas

Nitasha Biswas is one of the prominent influencers in the Indian beauty and fashion industry. In 2017, she was crowned Miss Trans Queen India/Miss Transqueen India, the country’s first transgender beauty queen. With over 119K followers on Instagram, Nitasha’s content focuses on breaking stereotypes and empowering others to embrace their true selves.
Nitasha’s journey to success was not without its challenges. Facing societal prejudices and systemic barriers, she defied the odds. And paved the way for more excellent transgender representation in beauty and fashion.

Nitasha shares her glamorous photoshoots, empowering captions, and advocacy work on Instagram. Her posts often highlight her experiences in the industry and the importance of inclusivity in fashion and media.

As a beauty queen, advocate, and influencer, Natasha continues to redefine beauty standards while championing acceptance and equality and her Instagram serves as a celebration of courage, individuality, and the power of perseverance.

Nitasha Biswas on Instagram: @nitasha_biswas

Number of Followers: 119K

Conclusion

The power of representation cannot be overstated, and these five LGBTQ influencers prove that visibility can inspire change. Through their unique stories, creative content, and tireless advocacy, LGBTQ influencers are paving the way for a more inclusive world. Their Instagram platforms are not only sources of inspiration but also spaces for education, empowerment, and community building.

Following these LGBTQ influencers allows us to celebrate diversity, learn from their experiences, and challenge societal norms. They remind us that authenticity, resilience, and self-expression are powerful tools for creating a more inclusive and compassionate society. Follow these influencers if you seek inspiration, knowledge, or a deeper connection with the LGBTQIA+ community. Their stories are changing the world, which is often overlooked and neglected.