One of India's ancient-most cities,Watch The Temptation of Kimono (2009) Lucknow, held its first-ever queer parade that saw color and optimism spilling on its streets.

It is widely believed that this north Indian city was the "epicenter of queer culture" during British India as its literature testifies, but the queer community was suppressed thereafter.

The Awadh Queer Pride Parade, a rare occurrence in conservative India, drew over 300 participants from far and wide. Not only LGBTQ individuals but also their families joined the march.

Event organizer Darvesh Singh Yadvendra told Scrollthat the parade was held to celebrate gender diversity and protest against discrimination and harassment.

Here are 10 stunning photographs from the show.

Here's a video too.

Well done, Lucknow!