The most heartening aspect was the solidarity shown by people outside the gay community — placards with “Homo Hetero Bhai Bhai” could be seen in abundance.

Though exact figures were not available, almost 50 per cent of the gathering comprised heterosexual people. Kanta Advani, in her mid-60s, walked through the raucous crowd, holding her husband’s hand. “I’m here in support of freedom,” she said.

The march began at 5.30 pm from Barakhamba Road and continued for over two hours to culminate at Jantar Mantar. Balloons soared, whistles rent the air and people danced to the beat of Asha Band. The crowd chanted, “Hum Dilli lene aaye hain, hum Dilli lekar jayenge.” By the time the march dispersed, nobody was left in any doubt that the mission was accomplished.