Before I write my letter to my dad, I’d like to explain why it’s important to me.

The familial set-up in India often makes it difficult for either party (parents or children) to have candid conversations about contentious issues such as sex, relationships, menstruation, pornography and masturbation. Belonging to an urban middle-class Bengali family settled in Delhi, I often found myself torn between progressive ideals I wished to adhere to and conservative principles I had been taught since childhood.

Despite all the hints I gave my parents about certain activities that are considered taboo in India, they never questioned me – or, tried to stop me. However, given the conservative nature of our relationship, I could never discuss them openly. Currently, I am pursuing a Masters in Gender at the University of Sussex, learning something new every day.

The experience has pushed me to do everything without inhibitions and without caring for the consequences. Today, I am going to one such thing.