Unlike the gloomy, rainy weather that Bengaluru had been seeing for the past few days, the Bengaluru Pride & Karnataka Queer Habba was a lively musical affair, with drum beats and chanting. The march, which began from Tulasi Park and ended at Town Hall had a strong voice against the Section 377, a sentiment which has been echoed by the LGBTQ community throughout the nation. The Pride March was the culmination of month long events such as theatre, poster making, awareness of issues particular to the community and so on.

The trans community showed up in large numbers to plan as well as to participate in the march, especially since repealing the Karnataka Police Act 36 (A) was on the agenda.

Several rainbow coloured umbrellas were seen amongst the crowds as people chanted in Kannada and English. Among the popular cries was: “1-2-3-4 open up the closet door, 5-6-7-8 don’t assume your child is straight”. Some also made their displeasure with current government policies clear by carrying posters that said “Beef eater, man lover.” Pamphlets were distributed amongst curious onlookers and passersby.

The march went on smoothly because of great organisation and support provided by police protection. It made for a free, fun-filled and very lively afternoon.

Tanika Godbole
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