A celebration of inclusivity and resistance

Bengaluru: Besieged by prejudice and discrimination, the transgender and LGBTQ+ community sees in Valentine's Day an opportunity to defy restrictions and spread the message of unlimited love and joy. Trans activists and artists, in collaboration with Space for Dreams and Mariwala Health Care, are celebrating the occasion by organising a three-day Bangalore Love Festival , beginning Friday. Trans activist Akkai Padmashali said the LGBTQ+ community seeks a society of love, acceptance and affection. "This is a crucial juncture where we need to bring back love... Valentine's Day is a moment to rethink and redefine ourselves. We have faced struggles for 25 years, but we will resist, celebrate and reclaim our spaces," Akkai said. Sowmya A, founder of Payana Organisation which works for the health and rights of the community, said, "Society often views us differently, and discrimination exists when we walk the streets with our partners. But that shouldn't stop us. We deserve to celebrate love just like anyone else. Valentine's Day is all about embracing love and being accepted." The festival, featuring poets, performers and activists, will highlight the importance of love across class, caste, gender and sexuality. Where, when and what Feb 14, 6pm to 8pm @ Alliance Française, Vasanthnagar Feb 15, 4pm to 8pm @ Ecumenical Centre, United Theological College Feb 16, 4pm to 6pm @ La Nirani, Jayanagar. Kashmir Sufi music from 7pm to 8pm