Sexuality and gender minority organisations in Bengaluru are coming together to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), observed annually on May 17, with a vibrant mix of protests and community-led events. A protest rally and series of community-led events will be organised to condemn violence, discrimination, and marginalisation faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals and to push for inclusive policies.
To foster social integration and challenge gendered norms in sports, Ondede — a non-profit organisation founded by trans activist Akkai Padmashali — will host ‘Autota Loka’ (playful world), a day-long sports gathering on May 16 at a government-aided school in Dasarahalli. The event will feature traditional Indian games such as kunte bille (hopscotch), chowkabara (ludo), anekallu (lagori), cricket, and kabaddi.
The inclusive event has invited participation from LGBTQIA+ individuals, sex workers, women, youth, and children. “Globally, sports are divided into ‘men’s’ and ‘women’s’ games, and rarely are any identified as belonging to our community,” said Rakshitha M, treasurer of Ondede. “Autota Loka reclaims all these games as ours.”
Abeda Begum, an intersex person and volunteer with Ondede, said, “People like us are denied equal rights, especially in the world of sports. This initiative is about mingling, building confidence, and being visible.”
On May 17, a community-led discussion will be held at ISA Hall in Wilson Town, bringing together over 100 participants to address issues such as education, employment, housing, healthcare, and the poor implementation of welfare schemes. Later that day, around 150 people are expected to gather at Freedom Park to raise these demands directly with government representatives.
Organisers said that while legal recognition has improved, meaningful inclusion and empowerment at the grassroots level remain elusive. These events are not just protests, they said, but an attempt to initiate dialogue between policymakers and the queer community.