Thane News: Pride March Set To Make Its Debut On May 31; Everything You Need To Know About LGBTQ+ Parade

Thane: For the first time, Thane is set to witness a vibrant celebration of diversity and love with the inaugural LGBTQ+ Pride March, scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 31, 2025. Organized by the Thane Pride Festival (TPF) a community-driven platform promoting queer awareness in the district the march marks a historic moment for the city.

The Pride March will commence at 4:30 PM from Nitin Company Junction and proceed to Talao Pali, concluding by 7:00 PM. Necessary permissions have been obtained from the police and traffic departments to ensure a safe and smooth event, according to the march organisers. Thanekers can expect an energetic and colourful celebration, complete with slogans of inclusivity and solidarity, under the theme "Love is Love."

The festival is being led by three main organisers. While speaking to The Free Press Journal, organiser Nakshatra Bagwe shared, “This festival is being led by three individuals, myself, Jay Kommana, and Shrey. Who have previously organised successful Pride events under the banner of Vasai-Virar Pride Festival (VVPF), held in Vasai (2023) and Virar (2024).

Thane Pride is a significant milestone as the city steps into the spotlight for LGBTQIA+ visibility and awareness. It’s important to emphasise that this is a grassroots, community-driven event entirely crowd-funded, with no corporate or brand sponsorship involved. This Pride is a celebration built on solidarity, resilience, and the strength of the queer community. We have secured all the necessary permissions from the Thane Police and are coordinating closely with the Traffic Police Department to ensure a safe and smooth experience for all participants.”

Objectives of the Pride March

This groundbreaking event aims to bring attention to the lives, struggles, and rights of the LGBTQ+ community. As per the press release shared by the Thane Pride Festival (TPF) the march is not just a celebration, it's a statement of visibility, resistance, and hope. The key objectives include:

Raising Awareness

To foster greater understanding and visibility of the LGBTQ+ community in Thane district.

Demanding Basic Human Rights

To advocate for equal rights, including the right to marry and adopt children, which are still denied to queer individuals in many parts of the country.

Fighting Injustice

To speak out against the numerous atrocities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, such as blackmail, financial exploitation, discrimination, physical violence, and rape. The event aims to empower victims to break their silence and seek justice.

Health Awareness

To spread awareness about HIV/AIDS and encourage safe sexual practices.

Celebrating Identity

To encourage individuals to take pride in their identities, step out of the shadows, and stand tall in solidarity.

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