When the queer community took to the city’s streets in its first-ever ‘Queer Azaadi March’ (QAM) three years ago, most of its lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) members opted to don colourful masks.
When the queer community took to the city’s streets in its first-ever ‘Queer Azaadi March’ (QAM) three years ago, most of its lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) members opted to don colourful masks.
In the three years since, things have seen a drastic change. “The 2008 march saw many masks and a few faces, as compared to now, when we will see people marching openly with no visible fear or shame of being queer,” says Naeem Dehalvi, a 29-year-old bank executive.
To be held on January 28, the QAM is back, with participants once again seeking freedom from the social prejudice which “recognises only two genders and considers only heterosexual relationships as valid”. The week leading up to the march will be celebrated as “queer pride week”, when activities, including a flash mob and photography contest, will be held.
It’s no surprise then that the run-up to the annual event is witnessing LGBT community members flocking to D’Kloset, a Bandra store selling gay fashion. “We have a collection of funky clothes, wigs, feather boas, and even masks in rainbow colours,” said owner Inder Vhatwar, who is offering fashion and styling tips for the march.
What’s also buoyed the community’s confidence is that following the 2009 Delhi high court’s landmark judgment, wherein Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code was read down, sections of the society have come forward in its support. “Students and popular media have taken up our cause without the fear of being ostracised, implying that Indian society is slowly but steadily getting more tolerant, if not accepting, towards us,” said gay rights activist Harish Iyer.
Even as the community inches towards a society sans discrimination, some lament the continual hatred and prejudice against them. “The Delhi HC’s progressive judgment is opposed by fundamentalists, who feel that our lives and desires go against Indian culture,” said Praful Baweja, an event management professional and a QAM regular.
Pointing out that discrimination continued unabated in offices and educational institutes, he added that anonymity had its own advantages. “By being visible, we are more vulnerable to discrimination and hatred.”
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