Thane’s Pride rivets spotlight on LGBTQIA+ issues – Newsband

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Thane: Even after the decriminalisation of same-sex relations between consenting adults and increased societal acceptance of LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Inter-sex and Asexual, and others), the community still faces daily discrimination, harassment, and violence.
To create awareness and find acceptance, the first-ever Thane Pride March was held on May 31. For the community, dignity, safety, and equality are not just distant goals, but one that needs immediate attention.
“Beyond marriage or adoption rights, our immediate focus is on raising awareness about daily discrimination, harassment, and violence against LGBTQIA+ people. While long-term goals matter, right now the top priority is fighting hate, workplace bias, and issues that affect the community in schools, homes, and public spaces,” said Nakshatra Bagwe, founder of Thane Pride Festival, said.
The Pride march, according to Bagwe, is to amplify the calls for justice, regarding harassment at home, the workplace, schools and colleges, and violence and crime the community has to encounter.
“Our volunteer team is made up of local people from Thane district, representing a wide spectrum of individuals from the community, including non-binary, trans men and women, lesbians, bisexuals, and allies. This grassroots involvement makes the event inclusive and authentic. It’s not just a celebration but a united stand,” he said.
Unlike other Pride events which are backed by major sponsors, the Thane Pride festival runs entirely on the power of community. It’s a Pride powered not by corporations, but by individual hope and solidarity.
“What makes this Pride special is that it’s entirely crowdfunded, and not a single rupee came from brands or sponsors. The funds were raised by individual community members contributing amounts as small as Rs 200 or 500. This is a people-led movement,” said Bagwe.
The route was chosen for maximum local visibility. The organisers avoided malls or upscale areas, focusing instead on streets frequented by everyday people from diverse age and economic backgrounds. Talao Pali, especially on weekends, draws large crowds, which is the ideal space to spark awareness and conversations where they are needed most.
Bagwe expressed the hope that “Thane, despite perceptions, has shown progressive leanings in art, culture, and cinema. I believe Thane will be a welcoming space for us.”
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