Festivals in India that celebrate Queer culture
The Koovagam Festival
This is a 18-day-long festival that takes place during April and May where transgender individuals from across the country come together to celebrate this festival at the Koothandavar temple in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu.
Koothandavar, also known as Aravan, the son of Arjun was said to have married Mohini, a woman form of Krishna. According to the legend, Aravan on the 18th day of the war agreed to be the sacrificial offering to Goddess Kali to help the Pandavas win the war. But he wished to marry before he died. Women were not agreeing to marry Aravan as he was destined to die the next day. So Krishna took the form of Mohini and married Aravan. During this festival, transgenders consider themselves as brides of Aravan. On the last day, the transgenders are married to Aravan by temple priests. The Last day sees them mourning for Aaravn. This festival later became a meeting point for the community.
KASHISH Mumbai International Queer Film Festival
Founded in 2010, this is the first LQBTQ+ film festival in India. It telecasts features, short films documentaries and experimental films. For 2023, the theme of Kashish 2023 is “Be Fluid, Be You’.
Queer Chennai Chronicles - Queer LitFest
Queer LitFest, part of the Chennai Rainbow Pride month celebrations, is a one-day festival. It has events ranging from presentations, panel discussions, oration, poetry and reading performances. It is a space where writers and translators from the community are recognized along with the discussions on queer literature and representation in literature.
Pridesio Bazaar in Pune
Pridesio Bazaar in Pune started June 3 at the F. C. Road Social. It is a one-day event for shopping, music, and celebration with performances from the most talented queer artists around.
The Out & Loud - Pune International Queer Film Festival
Organized by Mist LGBTQ Foundation, this is an annual event showcasing handpicked queer films from all over the world. The festival promises an amazing line-up of performances and thought provoking panel discussions. Besides coming together for the love of art and cinema, the festival will also be an open platform for the LGBTQ to voice their concerns in a social-friendly environment. The first Out & Loud – PIQFF was held in Pune in the April of 2017 to an overwhelming response.
Satrangi Mela
Satrangi Mela is an all-inclusive, day-long queer festival celebrating art, music and sexuality. Curated by @meta_fair & @mitalibhasin, this Mela is going to be the most beautiful celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community, featuring queer-owned businesses, artists, and activities.
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