They lived in the shadow of Section 377, always careful, ever watchful, and only danced with abandon at a couple of “gay-friendly” nightclubs that would let the two men enter as a couple on some nights.

On other days, and in public places, they would keep mum about their relationship. But after the Delhi High Court legalised homosexuality, Rahul Singh, a gay rights activist, is planning a surprise visit to his parents in Lucknow. And he is taking his partner of three years along.

Not that the landmark judgment would change mindsets overnight. But at least some sanction has come with the ruling.

“This means a lot to me,” Singh said. “This is the first step. The sanction has come from law.

Now, we can be together. But it is a long war, and we have just won the first battle.”

At the Jantar Mantar, the ‘protest spot’ in the Capital, four days ago, supporters and members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community were denouncing the draconian Section 377 at the Gay Pride march.

On Thursday, they came to the ‘protest street’ again to celebrate their rainbow identity.

“Make a Wish” etched on Gunjan Sharma’s handbag symbolised the optimism, and the gratitude. On July 2, when the Delhi High Court decriminalised homosexuality, that long-standing wish was granted. Sharma is a queer rights activist at TARSHI (Talking about Reproductive and Sexual Health Issues).

Nienke Boer, a South African volunteer, was taking in all the excitement. “It is historic. South Africa has legalised gay marriage but then we are a conservative society too. This is just a beginning,” she said.

... contd.