More Pride, Fewer Masks At Delhi’s First Pride Post 377 Verdict

Pride multiplies, as masks go fewer this queer pride parade.

Date: 25 November 2018.
Event: Delhi’s first pride parade post the Section 377 verdict.
Mood: Not simply pride. But Pride 2X. Because not only did the masks come off in huge numbers, but many of those present felt empowered as they said goodbye to the fear of revealing their identities.

Just two months back, on 6 September 2018, the Indian LGBTQ community had been infused with a renewed sense of pride after the Supreme Court lifted a colonial era ban on gay sex. The pride has only multiplied since then — and was on full display at Delhi’s Queer Pride Parade 2018.

Rishi Raj, a fashion stylist says he found it ‘brilliant’ that there were fewer masks this time at the pride parade in Delhi.

There was this lovely vibe of celebration and happiness throughout and it was brilliant to see less masks this time.

Rishi Raj, fashion stylist

Danish, a supporter of the LGBT community further adds,

Youngsters were very happily out (at the parade) and were able to just celebrate, so that was quite encouraging. The turnout was much bigger this time and the crowd was much younger which means that young students are able to come out in university spaces — which is huge. 

Danish, LGBT Rights supporter 

Danish, who has been attending the pride parade in the Capital for many years now, sensed a new kind of vibe in the celebrations this time.

There is a bigger sense of celebration as something truly monumental has happened. A decade long battle has been won. 

Danish, LGBT Rights supporter 

“Till now, the pride was protest and representation — being out there and campaigning to be heard, to be seen,” says Rishi Raj. But more smiles and a sense of contentment was the mood of the day this time round.

The only masks this time I saw were the smog, or ‘vog’ masks and not so many masks to cover people’s faces! So that was absolutely brilliant to see and it gives me great, immense joy to see my country progress.

Rishi Raj, Fashion Stylist

Many have already found some acceptance from friends, family and the society at large post the Section 377 verdict. But some still remain closeted. Akshay *name changed* says he too wishes that he can come to next year’s pride parade without wearing a mask next time.

I am still not comfortable with the idea of revealing my identity to my family. As you can see, I am wearing a mask this time. But I want to feel proud and come to the parade next year without a mask. 

Akshay *name changed* 

Akshay’s story is a reminder that even after the 377 verdict, there are still more personal and collective battles to be fought.

Of course there is a long way to go and a lot of human rights to be fought for and a lot of human rights to be acquired

Rishi Raj

We agree, but for now, let’s rejoice at the fact that the pride has indeed multiplied, and the fear has shrunk.

(With inputs from Priyanka Bansal)