Bollywood vibes at Pride Parade
As rainbow hues — in flags, placards, stoles, head bands, bindi art, bangles and even anti-pollution masks — ruled Delhi’s streets, marking 10 years of the Delhi Queer Pride Parade on Sunday, there was something filmi about it! We mean Bollywoodinspired slogans and creative cosplay.
“I am the queen of Padmavati (sic),” said Deepanshu Goswami — a corporate professional from Indore — who stood out in traditional attire and jewellery, dressed as actor Deepika Padukone’s character in an upcoming film.
“I am wearing this attire because of the Padmavati craze these days. Also, there is no point in leading a double life. I have been attending the pride parade for seven years now. I’ve been out of the closet out with my family, friends and colleagues,” said Deepanshu.
He was among the scores of people from across the world who walked in solidarity from Tolstoy Marg to Jantar Mantar, marking 10 years of a collective ongoing struggle to battle homophobia and transphobia.
Amid chants of freedom, and dhol beats — to which the crowd merrily danced — filminspired taglines such as Main Tera Boyfriend, Tu Mera Boyfriend, Duniya Kehndi Na Na Na; Bedardi Raja, 377 Hataja; and Munni Badnaam Hui, Sheila Jawaan Hui, Ek Duje Ke Liye were hard to miss.
The heavy smog choking the city couldn’t deter their spirit, as the gathering saw support in several expats — from countries such as Ireland, Germany, and Scotland, US — who turned up wearing antipollution masks. Sandra, from Germany, said, “Without a mask, it would’ve been hard. It’s nice to see so many people come together to try to bring about a change.”
Members and supporters of the queer community protested against the discrimination and marginalisation of the community, demanding the law criminalising homosexual acts to be repealed. They are hopeful as the movement has only been gaining momentum. “Over the years, there has been an increase in participation. Today, people come to the pride with so much confidence,” said Rafiul Alom Rahman, an LGBTQ activist and founding member of DUQC.