Patruni Chidananda Sastry
International Exposures
Patruni Chidananda Sastry was honored to be selected for both the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) by the U.S. State Department and the Interfaith Youth Leadership Program (IYLP) by Rubaroo. Through these programs, Patruni explored LGBTQ+ inclusion, cultural exchange, and interfaith dialogue across the USA and UK, enriching their advocacy for diversity, spirituality, and social change.
​
International Visitor Leadership Program 2024 USA
Becoming the first Indian drag queen selected for the IVLP by the U.S. State Department has been a journey of passion, perseverance, and advocacy. Starting my drag career in a time of limited acceptance, I used my performances to challenge norms and celebrate diversity. This dedication led to my selection for IVLP, where I engaged with LGBTQ+ activists, performed in San Francisco, and shared Indian drag with global audiences. Meeting a young aspiring drag artist in Los Angeles deeply resonated with me, reinforcing the universal struggles of queer expression. Through my work, I aim to inspire acceptance, celebrate individuality, and promote the rich cultural heritage of Indian drag on an international platform.
Interfaith Youth Leadership Program 2025, UK
I'm thrilled to share that I was selected for the Interfaith Youth Leadership Program (IYLP) 2025 by Rubaroo, which took me on an enriching journey across the United Kingdom. Guided by Dr. Andrew Davis, we explored inclusive faith environments at institutions like the University of Birmingham, Cambridge, and Oxford.
​
Our visits to diverse sacred spaces — Gurdwaras, mosques, cathedrals, temples, and interfaith prayer rooms — highlighted how spiritual dialogue can thrive in academic settings. Meaningful conversations with leaders like Munawar from Oxford Mosque, Kiran Ji from Nishkam Center, and Shirish Ji from Sri Venkateswara Balaji Temple offered powerful insights on community building and inclusion.
​
As a queer person, I engaged deeply in discussions about LGBTQ+ inclusion and healing from faith trauma, learning about both the challenges and evolving practices within spiritual spaces.
A standout moment was attending the World Women’s Day debate at UK Parliament, which underscored the vital link between faith, policy, and equality.
I'm incredibly grateful to Rubaroo for this transformative experience that has strengthened my commitment to fostering inclusive, compassionate spaces for all.