India, June 2 -- The Capital was overtaken by a burst of colour, cheer and unapologetic pride on Saturday evening at an event marking the beginning of Pride Month.

Bringing together members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, the event began with a series of moving speeches. From their personal journeys of acceptance to calling for policy-level inclusion and workplace equality, the speakers' words set the tone for the rest of the evening.

"I believe Pride should not just be celebrated during one particular month, but all 365 days of the year. It is just a happy reminder for everyone that the LGBTQIA+ community is here. We wanted to tell our people that while the world might be regressing, in India, we are progressing," said Keshav Sur...