As India celebrates its 73rd year of independence, the local LGBTQIA+ community is pausing for reflection, with this year's occasion representing the first Independence Day since homosexuality was decriminalised in the country.
On September 6th 2018, the Supreme Court of India voted to repealed section 377, a colonial-era law which deemed homosexuality a criminal act.
To mark the occasion - being dubbed India's 'first real Independence Day' - The Humsafar Trust, an Asia-based LGBTIQ+ organisation, has produced an alternative to India's National Anthem, honouring local LGBTIQ+ activists and advocates.
"This is the first year we LGBTQIA+ are really free and the Independence Day anthem will bring this poignantly," Ashok Row Kavi from the Humsafar Trust said.
"We thank IPG Mediabrands India for recording this happy moment and being part of this celebratory event in a meaningful way. Thank you all for being an active part of the first anniversary of our real Azaadi."
According to India Times, the touching short film will be played across PVR theatres in all eight of India's metropolitan cities to mark Independence Day.
"While there's a long way to go, it is a moment to be cherished," Ranak Mann from India Times wrote.
You can watch the full video below:
