With colours flying high and voices echoing in unity, over a thousand people gathered at the Self-Respect Pride parade 2025 held at Rajarathinam Stadium, Egmore, on Saturday, June 29. Friends, families, allies, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community marched together to affirm their identity, demand equal rights, and celebrate pride – not just as a festivity, but as a form of protest and self-expression.

“Pride is not just a celebration; pride is a protest,” said one of the event’s lead organisers during the rally.


Participants embrace anonymity and celebrate with elaborate masks and fans at the first announcement of Pride March at Sahodharan’s office.

The event began with the release of colourful balloons, symbolising freedom, visibility, and solidarity. Participants carried placards that read, “I voice out for those who can’t” and “Stop bullying,” along with messages supporting the community and its struggles. Dressed in bright costumes and creative props, many expressed their stories through fashion, art, and slogans.

A part of Chennai showed up waving flags for inclusivity.

Legal awareness was an important part of the rally. Volunteers and activists through the microphone discussed IPC Section 377 and Article 21, explaining how the law impacts the LGBTQIA+ community especially in terms of the right to privacy, dignity, and equality.

The march brought together several community-based organisations including Orinam, Sahodharan, Thozhi, Thozhan, Kattiyankari, Snegidhi, and others. People from across India and abroad took part, showing their support and standing up for inclusivity and human rights.

‘Vannangal’: A Celebration Before the Parade

Sowmya Reddy, from INC and current general secretary of India Mahila Congress.

The pre-pride celebration titled ‘Vannangal’ was held on June 28 exclusively within the community. The event featured story-sharing sessions, cultural performances, and motivational speeches aimed at encouraging first-time marchers.

Activists and NGO heads explained the deeper meaning behind Pride, urging participants to see it as a movement of courage and change.

“We honour not just our identities but also our journeys. Pride is about being seen and being heard,” said Ms. Sudha, head of Thozhi.

Volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes were also honoured for their contributions during Vannangal.

A Community-Owned March

At the end of the parade, they set a stage for “Naangal” (us) – a successful culmination of the 17th Chennai Pride parade, which showcased the talents among those of the community who took part in the pride parade for the first time.

The event started with a heart-warming classical dance by Ms. Vanitha, the trans classical dancer and teacher. This was followed by Ms Akamsha, who is a model and actress, also Miss Trivandrum,2024.

Let none be ashamed for who they are!

One of the proudest voices was that of Ms. Jaya, General Manager of Sahodharan, a Chennai-based NGO supporting the queer community. Therukural fame Arivu performed to lend his support.

“This is the only community-owned pride event without any external funds or political support,” she stated, highlighting the collective effort behind the scenes.

 

Sources:

Ms. Jaya, General Manager, Sahodharan.

Mr. Sharan, Founder, Tamil Nadu LGBTQIA Iyakkam.

Dr. L. Ramakrishnan, Director, Orinam.

Ms. Sudha, Head, Thozhi.

Ms. Sabeetha, Activist.