The Queer Azaadi Mumbai Pride March, held on Saturday, saw hundreds turn up to wave rainbow flags, dress up as superheroes, do a jib, and just be themselves
The Queer Azaadi Mumbai Pride March, held on Saturday, saw hundreds turn up to wave rainbow flags, dress up as superheroes, do a jib, and just be themselves
While many were waving multi-coloured flags to declare their freedom, others were dressed in other-worldly avatars to support the gay community. "I am dressed like a queer superhero," said Amber Pemak, a resident of the US. Pemak participated in the march to express his solidarity with the gay cause.
Vinay Bhorkade, who was floating a rainbow-coloured flag, said the multi-hued flier signified the many vibrant colours of his life, "including my mom and dad".
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While some onlookers were curious about gathering, others joined in enthusiastically. "It's okay to be gay; things have changed. And yet, a lot mote needs to be for the community," said Shakkel, refusing to reveal his full name.
Sonia Singhal, who identified herself as gay, turned up for the event despite a leg injury. "We want rights and we're proud lesbians. Hum ghut ghut ke nahin jee sakte (we can't live in fear)," said Singhal, who traversed the distance of the parade on a wheelchair.
A placard above all the others aptly screamed out: Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Issai, Hetero, Homo Bhai-Bhai (we are all brothers).
Actress Celina Jaitley, who was present at the boisterous gathering, said, "Be true and be you." A group of transsexuals were at the open maidan performing a dance called Karakattam, a popular folk dance from Tamil Nadu, where dancers carry decorated pots on their heads.
Jordan Osserman from Florida, US, was in town specially for the parade. Osserman, a student of Queer Movements and Identity in Hyderabad, had a different take on the gay rights movement in India.
"It seems like all the movements for queer rights centre around the issue of HIV/AIDS, since that's the one issue that organisations feel is legitimate enough to demand rights for from the government. It's sad that all issues concerning gays are centered around an illness," he said.
Organisers believe this year's gay parade, which was preceded by weeklong events across various parts of Mumbai, has witnessed a more positive response. "People approached us and offered to help us," says Vivek Anand, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Humsafar Trust.
Pallav Patankar, who is associated with Bombay Dost, said, "The event has been very successful. There were many straight people who arrived to participate in most events. It has opened up a dialogue."
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