2 July 2025, Kolkata – The cultural heart of India lit up with acceptance, pride, and inclusivity as The Bengal, a leading Kolkata-based NGO, hosted the “Colours of Courage 2025”—a grand celebration honoring the strength, identity, and empowerment of the LGBTQ+ community. Held during Pride Month, this impactful event was powered by Shree Cement under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, and co-organized with Lotus Rescue, an NGO devoted to uplifting disadvantaged children, women, and transgender individuals.
Empowering Pride: An Evening of Voice, Visibility & Victory
In a city known for its cultural pluralism and historic progressiveness, the “Colours of Courage 2025” stood tall as a beacon of inclusion. The event not only celebrated LGBTQ Pride Month in Kolkata but also forged a deeper commitment to inclusivity and social equity.
The vibrant celebration was attended by Anupam Chatterjee, Kolkata’s renowned fashion designer and vocal LGBTQ+ ally. Known for his fashion label WARSSI Kolkata, Anupam delivered a heartfelt message advocating for gender expression, freedom of identity, and human rights.
“Inclusion is not a privilege—it’s a right. Events like these normalize what should never have been questioned: equality,” said Chatterjee during his keynote speech.
Community Champions & Change-Makers Unite
Alongside Chatterjee, several prominent figures added strength to the cause through their inspiring presence and support:
- Kumkum Jalan, a fierce advocate for the Deaf community in Kolkata, shared her journey of inclusive activism.
- Sheldon Enrique Manuk, a product specialist and makeup artist, captivated the audience with a performance that symbolized self-expression and pride.
- Ms. Priya Doshi Saha, a veteran counsellor and educator, highlighted the need for mental health awareness within LGBTQ+ youth.
- Priyanka G. Karmakar, Managing Director of GMPL, spoke passionately about ongoing projects aimed at transgender empowerment in West Bengal.
Esha Dutta, Committee Member of The Bengal and Joint Convener of Pronam, emphasized the organization’s long-standing commitment to uplifting marginalized voices:
“The Bengal has always believed in forging meaningful community bonds. Our Pride Month activities are a reflection of that ongoing mission.”
Beyond the Celebration: A Movement Towards Lasting Impact
Colours of Courage 2025 wasn’t merely an event; it was a loud, proud declaration of belonging. The collaboration between NGOs, corporate houses, and public figures signals a growing shift in Indian civil society’s approach to LGBTQ+ rights, recognition, and representation.
The partnership between Shree Cement, The Bengal, and Lotus Rescue points to an emerging model where businesses play an active role in building inclusive communities through their CSR initiatives.
Importantly, the event served as a powerful reminder that while legal progress has been made (such as the decriminalization of Section 377), social acceptance, mental wellness support, and equal opportunities remain work in progress.
Conclusion: Spreading the Colours of Courage Across India
As Colours of Courage 2025 wraps up, its message continues to ripple across the state and beyond. In a time when LGBTQIA+ rights need stronger allies and platforms, such initiatives illuminate the path toward equality, dignity, and celebration of all identities.
Let us carry forward this momentum—not just in Pride Month—but every day.
Did you attend the event or have a story to share about Pride Month in your city? Tell us in the comments or share your experiences on social media with #ColoursOfCourage2025!
