“I’m Anil, founder and president of Mobbera Foundation. This year’s Queer Fiesta was very special to all of us. We started this ten years ago with just a handful of us trying to create space for the LGBTQIA+ community to be seen, heard, and celebrated. This time, more than 800 people showed up. That’s the highest we’ve ever had. In the earlier years, it was around 500 or 600. Seeing that growth felt emotional because it shows that more of us are coming out, showing up, and standing together.

Queer Fiesta 2025 was organised by Mobbera Foundation and supported by The Pride Fund India. We wanted the event to reflect the ten-year journey we’ve been on — from fighting for basic rights to finding joy and strength in community. Our theme this year looked back at some key moments that shaped us — like the long fight against Section 377, the years when there was no recognition for transgender people, and the constant need to prove that we belong. These weren’t just performances or displays. They were memories, struggles, and shared truths.

In the current climate, this kind of gathering feels even more urgent. Around the world, the LGBTQIA+ community is facing more attacks. Many of the NGOs and support groups that once had funding are struggling now. Some companies that used to talk about inclusion have gone quiet. Jobs have been lost. People are scared. But this event reminded us that even in tough times, we will not give up. We will keep coming together, supporting each other, and pushing forward.

Telangana has taken some meaningful steps in the right direction. It is the only state in India that has officially recruited both trans women and trans men into government jobs.

So far, 44 people have joined the police and traffic departments. GHMC has also started skill training programs, and some private companies are beginning to show interest. These steps are not enough, but they matter.

Still, many from the LGBTQIA+ community are forced to drop out of school or college because of bullying or lack of support. Without education, it’s hard to find jobs. And even those who want to start their own work struggle without training or access. That’s why we’re focusing more on skill development, employment and helping people become independent. It’s not just about visibility. It’s about survival and dignity.

One of the most touching moments this year was seeing people come all the way from Pune, Chennai, and Bengaluru. Some of them were part of Mobbera in the early days. Listening to their stories, laughing, crying, and remembering those early days together — it made the whole event feel like a homecoming.

We’ve also had the support of people who’ve stood by us consistently. Monalisa, a senior LGBTQIA+ activist, has been with us for years. So has Mala Aunty, a strong ally who continues to support from the heart. There are many others too, who work quietly in the background, just to make sure we’re able to do what we do.

At the same time, I want to be honest. There are some groups and corporates who show up only for visibility or branding. That kind of tokenism doesn’t help anyone. Real support means giving space, listening, and standing with the community — not speaking over it. Representation must come from within.

We also need to talk about how policy still doesn’t include everyone. While there’s been progress for trans men and trans women, non-binary and gender non-conforming people are still left out. Inclusion should mean everyone — not just those who fit into a legal definition.

There are transgender people. There are queer people. There are intersex individuals. There are lesbians, gays, bisexuals, non-binary, asexual, agender people, drag performers, and so many others. We are not a small or invisible group. We are here. We are many. And we are not going anywhere.

This is what Queer Fiesta stands for. This is why we continue to show up — for each other, and for the future we all deserve.”

— Anil, Founder and President, Mobbera Foundation