Rainbow Hills Welfare Association hosts film screening to commemorate Pride Month in Gangtok

GANGTOK, : In celebration of Pride Month, the Rainbow Hills Welfare Association hosted a vibrant film screening event at Travel Cafe, Development Area, Gangtok, under the banner ‘The Fabric of Freedom’.

The program brought together members of the LGBTQIA+ community, Sikkim State AIDS Control Society (Sikkim SACS), and allies for an evening of cinema, awareness, and solidarity, a press release informs.

The event featured the screening of two acclaimed films: “Sir Ma’am” by Rayaan Monkey in collaboration with the Humsafar Trust, and Sikkim’s first LGBTQIA+ film ‘Mohan ra Madan’ directed by Bkey Agarwal. The latter’s lead actor, Adarsh Pradhan, graced the occasion, engaging with the audience and sharing insights about the film’s message and impact.

Adding to the festivities, the event included face painting, on-site HIV testing, and a range of interactive activities designed to foster community spirit and promote health awareness.

The program was honored by the presence of Diki Sonam Bhutia, assistant director (IEC), Sikkim SACS, who attended as the chief guest.

In her address, Bhutia extended heartfelt support to the LGBTQIA+ community, emphasizing Sikkim SACS’s commitment to inclusivity and encouraging all individuals to take pride in their identities.

The evening concluded with an informal networking session, providing a safe and welcoming space for community members to connect and celebrate.

Avinam Manger, core member of the Rainbow Hills Welfare Association and manager of the upcoming Sikkim Pride Parade, invited everyone to join the Pride Parade on June 22 at Gangtok. He urged all to celebrate themselves authentically and stand together in solidarity.

This event is part of a series of initiatives leading up to the Sikkim Pride Walk 2025, reinforcing the State’s ongoing commitment to equality, diversity, and acceptance, the release mentions.