On a warm and emotional Sunday evening, the Gay Bombay community came together for a heartening Mother’s Day Meet, held on 11 May 2025. I had not planned this meet for a long time. It came as an impromptu decision. I have a mom who has supported me for all of my life and since Mother’s Day was coming up, I thought of all the moms out there who have helped their children and the LGBT+ movement in one way or another. I thought how better than to celebrate Mother’s Day than to invite them together and felicitate their love.

So, more than a celebration of a day marked on the calendar, the event was a stirring tribute to mothers who have stood by their queer children with unwavering love and strength. It was an evening of shared stories, quiet resilience, and a reaffirmation of chosen and biological family ties.

The meet began on a sweet and colourful note with a rainbow cake-cutting ceremony. The cake, symbolic of pride and inclusivity, was graciously provided by the Trans Café, which also catered the event. All the attending mothers came forward to take part in this ceremonial moment, which felt both festive and symbolic—cutting through stigma, one slice at a time.

Present at the event were several remarkable mothers: Mrs Phadnis, Mrs Iyer, Mrs Kulkarni, Mrs Rastogi, Mrs Desai, and Mrs Divgikar. Each of these women has journeyed through personal challenges, societal pressures, and cultural expectations to fully embrace their children’s identities. As they introduced themselves and shared their experiences, the room held its breath—these stories, raw and honest, echoed the courage it takes to grow in love beyond convention.

This year’s meet also paid tribute to the dearly departed—mothers and aunts whose support and compassion helped shape the path many now walk. Among them were my beloved aunts, Munni Pua and Goodie Pua, and cherished mothers like Mrs Jalnawala, Mrs Doshi, Mrs Bagwe, and Mrs Sheth. Their memories were honoured in both spirit and word, a poignant reminder that love, once given, never truly leaves.

Following the introductions, the space was opened up for questions from the audience. This created an organic, heartfelt dialogue between queer individuals and the mothers present, allowing for mutual understanding and emotional connection. Several audience members then rose to speak about their own mothers—some with joy, others with longing—and the room responded with empathy and grace.

The meet was attended by approximately 35 people, and after the formal segment, attendees were encouraged to mingle. Laughter, hugs, and thoughtful conversations flowed freely. The relaxed setting allowed people to connect in meaningful ways, whether over shared memories, emotional stories, or simply the food lovingly prepared by the Trans Café.

What made this event stand out was its authenticity—there was no rush, no pretence, just people holding space for one another. The generosity of the mothers, the vulnerability of the queer attendees, and the quiet strength running through it all made for a deeply moving evening.

In a world that often teaches us to fight for our place, this gathering was a rare moment of peace and belonging. It reminded everyone present that acceptance, when rooted in love, can move mountains.

Gay Bombay continues to lead with heart, and this year’s Mother’s Day meet was no exception.

— Harpreet Chhachhia

Here are some pictures from the event. The videos shall be posted on the GayBombay Instagram page: @gbgaybomby