The first-ever Pride March unfolded within the Godrej One building felt like history in the making, even for a company which counts its age in centuries. Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of Vikhroli, the headquarters became the vibrant backdrop for an event that echoed with the resounding calls for equality, love, and acceptance.

As the sun cast its golden glow upon the city streets, employees of the Godrej Industries Group (GIG) gathered on the 9th floor, our spirits alight with anticipation and solidarity as we stood shoulder to shoulder.

At the helm of this historic march stood pride marshals, Parmesh Shahani, head, Godrej DEI Lab; Megha Goel, CHRO, Godrej Properties Limited; Balram Singh Yadav, MD, Godrej Agrovet Limited; Manish Shah, MD, Godrej Capital; Vishal Sharma, MD, Godrej Industries Limited (Chemicals); and Nisaba Godrej, executive chairperson, Godrej Consumer Products Limited, all embodying the spirit of leadership and advocacy. The March was organised by GCPL, supported by the Godrej DEI Lab and volunteer workers from every Group company.

After they unfurled the intersex Pride Flag designed by Valentino Vecchietti, a cheeky Lavani performance by two dancers from The Qknit Foundation enthralled everyone present.

When the march commenced, the air hummed with a palpable energy, igniting a spark of hope that illuminated every corner of the building. "For the first time, an organisation has truly championed Pride and the LGBTQIA+ community like the Godrej Industries Group has. Not limited to June, GIG's commitment shines through in daily actions and inclusive policies. The pride march across Godrej One was unforgettable," Aarush Patil of Godrej Capital said.

Along the route, dhol-tasha players added to the electric atmosphere with their rhythmic beats as we paused in awe, all our hearts stirred by the sight of colleagues and friends marching in solidarity. From executives to interns, employees from every echelon of the group lent their voices to the chorus of equality, their collective strength amplifying the call for change.

From the towering heights of the ninth floor to the atrium on the first floor, the procession weaved its way through corridors in office spaces, a colorful tapestry unfurling against the backdrop of glass and metal.

Amidst the sea of rainbow flags, placards with slogans, and spirited chants, stories of courage and resilience emerged. Members of Sweekar, a support group for parents of LGBTQIA+ children, brought their own narratives of supporting their queer children to the forefront.

While the march reached its crescendo on the first floor, a wave of euphoria swept through the crowd, washing away the barriers of prejudice and fear. In this moment of unity, the Godrej One building became more than just a workplace-it transformed into a sanctuary of acceptance, where differences were not just tolerated, but celebrated.

"The joy and pride on the faces of community members was moving and inspiring. Seeing the enthusiastic participation from LGBTQIA+ folks and allies alike made me realise the profound impact of our work. It was an emotional experience that inspired me to continue striving for greater inclusion and unity," Shashank Awale of GCPL said.

Text by Prithvi Vatsalya. Image by Vishnu Harinath G.