The streets of Pune came alive with color, music, and hope as hundreds of young people led the annual Pune Pride March 2025, making it one of the city’s most vibrant and impactful celebrations of LGBTQ+ rights to date. This year’s theme, “Equality and Acceptance Begin with Us,” resonated strongly as youth groups, student organizations, and allies joined hands to demand a more inclusive and compassionate society.
The Pride March, organized by the Pune Queer Collective and supported by local NGOs, began at Sambhaji Park and wound its way through the heart of the city. Rainbow flags fluttered, faces were painted with bold colors, and placards carried messages such as “Love Knows No Gender,” “Trans Rights Are Human Rights,” and “Proud to Be Me.”
This year, the visible presence of students from Pune’s colleges and universities stood out. Many first-time marchers expressed that participating in Pride was both a personal milestone and a public statement against discrimination.
Young leaders took center stage, delivering passionate speeches about the need for equal rights, mental health support, and safe spaces on campuses. Riya Deshmukh, a 21-year-old student and one of the event’s coordinators, said, “We are the generation that refuses to be silent. We demand not just tolerance, but true acceptance at home, in schools, and in society.”
Workshops and street performances along the route highlighted issues such as bullying, gender identity, and the importance of inclusive sex education. Many participants called on educational institutions to update curricula and policies to better reflect the realities of LGBTQ+ youth.
The march drew support from local businesses, artists, and several city officials. Pune Municipal Corporation representatives reiterated their commitment to making public spaces safer and more welcoming for the LGBTQ+ community. Some politicians, attending the event for the first time, promised to push for anti-discrimination laws and better access to mental health resources.
Despite the celebratory mood, speakers acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in India, including social stigma, lack of legal protection, and mental health struggles. Activists urged continued vigilance and advocacy, especially for marginalized groups within the queer community, such as trans and non-binary individuals.
Organizers also highlighted the need for more support services, including crisis helplines, counseling, and housing for those facing family rejection.