<p>Despite the decriminalization of homosexuality in India, the homosexual community still largely report feeling discriminated against and marginalized based on their sexual orientation. The ambivalence and stigma around homosexuality are more on a societal and cultural level than constitutional. The non-favourable attitudes towards sexual minorities lead to their stigmatization that culminates in their shame. Steeped in traditional cultures in India that idealizes heterosexuality, anti-homosexual attitudes are evident. Thus, the present research aims to understand the experiences of individuals who identify as homosexuals, and examine the patterns of shame culture in Indian society associated with their homosexuality. Ruth Benedict’s theoretical framework of culture of shame has been utilized to make sense of the patterns of shame that exist in Indian society as experienced by homosexuals. Data was collected from eight participants residing in Delhi, aged between 20 and 25 years, five of who identified themselves as lesbians and three as gays. A semi-structured interview was used to generate data that was also peer-reviewed by a panel of experts. The data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (<CitationRef CitationID="CR16">2006</CitationRef>) thematic analysis Seven major themes were identified from the data elucidating their journey and challenges, which could lead to shame in a culture like India - ‘Identifying as a homosexual’; ‘Suffering shame’; ‘Hiding orientation’; ‘Heterosexuality as a norm’; The prospect of ‘coming out’ and factors affecting it’; and ‘Conditions nurturing acceptance’. Finally, this study would be a step in the direction of understanding issues faced by homosexuals in detail, especially the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of their sexual orientation. This would perhaps pave the way in identifying aspects which could nurture their acceptance at a societal level.</p>