At ‘Nirali Diwali’, Pune’s LGBTQ+ community celebrates togetherness and belonging

Now in its third year, the event brought together queer individuals and their allies for an evening of performances, poetry, music, and shared stories.

“Festivals can feel lonely when you are alone or not accepted at home,” said Anil Ukarande, founder of Yutak LGBTQ.

“We started ‘Nirali Diwali’ so that no one feels left out. People come here, enjoy pharal together, sing, dance, express themselves and in doing so, they free themselves from taboo and self-doubt. When our people feel confident being themselves, that is the true light of Diwali.”

Before the celebrations began, participants decorated the venue with handmade lanterns and colourful rangolis. As the evening unfolded, the stage came alive with poetry, dance, and songs, each performance a reflection of resilience and joy. Between acts, the community shared plates of pharal and laughter, embodying a spirit of togetherness.

Many decorated the space with lights and lanterns adding warmth and sparkle to the celebrations. (Express Photo)

For many, returning to Nirali Diwali each year has become a ritual. “This is my third Diwali here,” said Vivek Patil, an MBA student. “Spending it with people who are my chosen family means a lot”.

That sentiment resonated throughout the evening. “It is so heartwarming to be here,” said Priyadarshan Sahasrabuddhe, a start-up owner. “Everyone has a unique story to tell. The diversity here makes me feel proud, like I have become richer by knowing people of different identities and orientations.”

For Zoya Shirole, secretary of Yutak, the event’s beauty lies in its simplicity. “No one here is related by blood, but everyone connects through conversation, empathy, and joy. It is a wholesome experience for everyone involved.”

Volunteer Shruti Chokhandre echoed that sense of solidarity, “Meeting with more members of the community is so important; it made me feel like I was not alone. Events like these are about doing something for those who feel unaccepted by the world and giving a reason to smile and be themselves.”

As applause echoed for the final performer, and the lights shimmered across the rainbow rangolis, the message of ‘Nirali Diwali’ glowed brighter than ever, that Diwali’s light grows warmer when shared by all.

Ruta Patil is an intern with The Indian Express.