Uttarakhand’s first LGBT-led dance group stages its performance
The performance came after Uttarakhand’s first-ever ‘Garvotsav’ or Pride Walk was held by the LGBT community in Dehradun in July this year on the lines of those organised in Delhi and Mumbai.
Dehradun:
A newly formed dance group, led by LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) members, tries to send out a positive image about the community.
Doon Dancing Angels, the first-ever LGBT-led dance group of Uttarakhand, staged its first public performance in Dehradun recently to rave reviews.
“When we were planning our first performance, we were a bit sceptical whether people will like our show or not, or if they’ll even turn up to attend it in the first place...We’re glad they (audience) proved us wrong,” said Anshika, a model-dancer and a found member of the group. “The group got an overwhelming support from Doonites at their maiden show.”
The performance came after Uttarakhand’s first-ever ‘Garvotsav’ or Pride Walk was held by the LGBT community in Dehradun in July this year on the lines of those organised in Delhi and Mumbai.
The main aim of the group is to “send out a positive image while trying to shatter the tag of begging and prostitution which has come to be associated with the LGBT community” especially the transgenders, said Ammiy, a postgraduate student and a group member. “We want to get the respect and recognition we deserve through this professional (dance) group.”
Through the group, the members are not only looking forward to showcasing their “hidden talent” but also “earning respect” as a professional dance troupe in the country.
“The group will not only bridge the gap between the mainstream society and the LGBT community but will also give them opportunity to brush shoulders with professional dance groups from around the country,” said Tejas, president of Prayojan Kalyan Samiti, a community-based organisation that is facilitating the Doon Dancing Angels group.