ESHAN HILAL, 24

Belly Dancer and Gender Fluid Model

Freedom is. When cleavage is seen as being confident and being bold is not synonymous with vulgar. For me, it means living the life I want to, irrespective of my gender.

In the eyes of my family, I’m a sinner. I come from a typical Muslim orthodox family where the entertainment industry and art world are considered haram. They expect a miracle to get their son on the right track and hope that he’ll fulfil the ultimate goal of finding a spot in heaven after death.

From a nachaniya to an inspirational dancer, the journey has been mind boggling. If we keep the initial name calling aside, I’ve realised that with time, society showers you with acceptance when they see something meaningful.

I'm a man. I like my beard and I also like to wear skirts. No, I don't want to change my sex. In a world with complete freedom, we’d be able to say this sentence in one breath. High heels were originally made for men.

It was a sign of virility, masculinity and high status. I don’t intend to promote cross dressing but I definitely have a problem with stereotypes.