'Out of Closet' - IIT Delhi's First Pride Parade at Delhi University

As a part of the annual cultural fest of Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi) , Rendezvous, a major chunk of Delhi University (DU) students came forward to support the first pride parade.

This social awareness campaign under ‘Pehchaan’ of IIT-D was titled as ‘Out of Closet’ and began from St. Stephen’s College and ended at Hansraj College of the North Campus in DU area earlier this week.

Also Read: IIT Delhi to Organise Cultural Fest ‘Rendezvous’ from 21st October

Most students who came forward believed that it was an encouraging initiative taken up by the social team of IIT-D and therefore willingly supported the cause. They were of the opinion that it is very difficult to come out and be what you are, following the fear of being judged.

The major highlight of the pride parade was a flash mob on ‘Wavin’ Flag song by IIT-D students. Additionally, Sharif D Rangnekar, a lyricist and LGBTQ activist and Sukhdeep Singh, editor of LGBTQ magazine, Anwesh Sahoo, Mr. Gay India and a student of Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology , were among those present at the event.

Also Read: Students Must Take Active Part in Social Activities: AP HRD Minister

However, the march procession was disturbed and interrupted by a group of people who did not consider it apt because of the funding involved in the same. A professor from Ambedkar University said that IIT’s cultural fest is a funded one which ultimately meant that the pride parade is also funded. Students of IIT Delhi tried to assure that no money was taken from the sponsors as it was a part of the social awareness campaign, but the former did not agree.