This qualitative and exploratory study documents an extremely rich and varied culture of men who have sex with men (MSM), also highlighting the high level of stigma and discrimination that increases the vulnerability.

The study highlighted that

• There was substantial male-to-male sex.
• MSM culture was extremely rich and varied. There was great diversity in terms of the different identities, roles performed by the MSM and the complexities of behaviors they engaged in.
• There were several types of sexual activities performed. Anal sex was quite common. Oral sex, inter-femoral sex, mutual masturbation were the other activities occurring frequently.
• The behavior mostly remained invisible due to social stigma and discrimination. Though some of the age-old irrational laws were in force not many people were aware of them. Thus that did not seem to be an important reason behind the invisibility.
• It was very common that the first sexual experience was at home and the first sexual partner was a relative. The triad of desire to discharge, power and privacy was the most important causal factor.
• There was significant level of commercial sexual activity among MSM.
• There was high prevalence of STDs and HIV due to tremendous lack of awareness about the risks involved and very low condom usage.
• Most MSM were married or would get married. Female partners in marriage were mostly unaware of the male-to-male sexual activities of their sexual partners.