Originally supposed to coincide with Delhi’s Pride Parade, the queer community and its allies in Bengaluru finally got a chance to revel in #NammaPride on Sunday, 9 December.
The first Pride march after the Supreme Court verdict that decriminalized homosexuality earlier in September saw thousands of people come out on the streets, declaring their love, celebrating with their loved ones and standing tall in front of the world.
From colourful signs, an array of attires and the spunkiest attitude, celebrations started early in the state capital as participants revved up to march 5 km. Drum beats and cheers echoed in the city as people celebrated the first Pride march after the SC verdict.
The crowd displayed colourful and rebellious signs as people voiced their support for the LGBTQ community and underscored its absolute freedom. Nothing was too cliche.
Rosa Felicia had an important political statement to make. Hailing from Kerala, the resident of Bengaluru wanted to smash “cis Brahmanical patriarchy.”
“As a trans person who is also Dalit, our alienation is doubled. Not only do we have to deal with caste bias, we also have to put up with homophobia. The atmosphere in the country is so politically-charged at present that all of us, from all inter-sections, need to come and show our face and grit to be represented.”Rosa Felicia
A More Inclusive Pride Than Recent Years
From senior citizens to young children staring in awe, there was a tangible change in the parade after homosexuality was decriminalized.
From supporting their family and friends to standing up for what is right, there were myriad participants and good vibes.
Ms ‘Kohinoor Diamond’, who had iridescent lashes and a folding-fan in hand, had quite a bit to say about the subtext of her name.
“She’s been away from India but now she’s finally back in her homeland. She’s been cut down by society many times but she’s come back shining even brighter and so she is here to show her solidarity with equality of people of all kinds, of all genders and sexualities.”Ms Kohinoor Diamond
But the cutest Pride participant was a furry friend who was getting mobbed for selfies.
Change Was in the Air
There were several children at the parade, some of them too young to do anything but observe, and others bearing placards while sitting on adults’ shoulders.
‘Because we Are a Queer Family’
“Because we are a queer family... the kids need to see everything from when they are this old. It’s better because there’s so much exposure. They sometimes help me understand things better because they’re more accepting.”Shakti and Rupa
‘It’s the Little Things That Have Changed’
For 19-year-old Susmit Bansode from Pune, it’s being able to walk freely on the streets that matters the most.
“Pride means a lot to me. It’s like expressing my joy and freedom. We do matter, we want to clear misunderstandings about us and spread joy. You can’t hold your partner’s hand and walk. You can’t kiss someone of the same gender because there was a fear. Its now easier to love whomever we want, where ever we want.”Susmit Bansode
The Images of Hope and Happiness
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