Delhi Queer Pride Parade returns after a three-year hiatus

The stretch from Barakhamba to Jantar Mantar was covered in rainbow colours after a three-year hiatus when the Delhi Queer Pride Parade was held in the capital on Sunday. With rainbow balloons, flags and placards like, ‘We are all worthy of love’, ‘Pushpa, I love queers’, ‘Pyaar kiya toh gender kya’ and ‘Love is not a crime’, thousands marched towards Jantar Mantar singing, dancing on dhol beats, chanting slogans of azadi with friends, family and allies.

Fashion choreographer Rishi Raj, who has been attending the pride parade for years now, said, “What was amazing to see was that it was not only the LGBTQI+ community, but also the allies who were out in full force, marching along and celebrating.” Anwesh Sahoo, Mr Gay India 2016, also attended the parade with his friends on Sunday. He said, “I have been going to Delhi pride parade since I was 18. I have seen it evolve over the years. In fact, a lot of young queer folx are joining us for the first time and it shows a major shift in attitudes.”

Rishi Raj

Anwesh Sahoo

“I cannot explain how I felt today. I think the experience of attending this parade will stay with me forever,” said a participant. Another participant at the pride parade added, “It was an exhilarating experience to be at the pride parade after three years.” “It is so good to see so many people of different age groups turning up at the pride parade,” said another participant.