In patriarchal cultures, heterosexuality and masculinity are figuratively joined at the hip. What do we mean by this? We mean that more often than not, a bulk of expression and behaviour that is recognised as “masculine” in patriarchal societies is linked to the ability of men to engage in (often multiple) sexual and romantic relationships with women. In such societies and cultures, those men who do not fit into this paradigm, ie. are not attracted to women, are discriminated against and stigmatised. This can have a negative impact on not only their power and status within communities, but also on their self-esteem and well-being. It is perhaps for this reason that men might find it hard to accept being sexually or romantically attracted to other men, like Varun here. But is masculinity only something that society determines for you? To read more about the link between masculinity and sexuality, click here!