The Standpoint

'No fear, we’re Queer'

By

Karan Deep Singh

With a drizzle that took place an hour before, the hot and humid whether could not stop the thousands from shouting slogans, dancing and celebrating who they are. Some of the placards read: “Proud to be Queer”, “Heterosexuality is not normal, it is only common”, “Queer and Loving It”, “Drop 377” and “No fear, we’re Queer”.

The march left a vibrant and happy atmosphere all around which seemed like it was highly contagious. People who were otherwise not aware of the march and just happened to be in Connaught Place kept pouring in till it ended. Journalists, photographers, social activists and even parents of gay children participated with a great deal of enthusiasm.

The Pride march was not only a display of individual freedom but also a display of love that bound the community which was evident from those warm hugs, handshakes and occasional kissing between the people of gay community in Delhi. It was an incredible sight to see these people who might otherwise be strangers on the road or while commuting but were suddenly together and were genuinely happy to be around each other while simultaneously marching for the cause.

While some wore masks to keep their identity under wraps, there was a majority that decided to face the cameras and those who looked on from buses and cars which were stopped by the Police to let the march proceed.

Alas, the organizers must have breathed easy as no religious groups were to be seen around, thanks to the three PCR vans following the parade and heavy protection by police officials.