The LaLit Mumbai unites to celebrate International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia 2019 (IDAHOBIT)

The LaLit Mumbai, on May 17, in another bold attempt towards the inclusion of the LGBTQI community in the mainstream society and to strengthen the Groups agenda, celebrated the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia 2019 (IDAHOBIT). This day was celebrated across all The LaLit properties with the unique concept of Drag Queen Story Hour.

During the celebrations, Rani-Ko-He-Nur, a very famous and renowned Drag Queen of the city, reads out stories to kids from the newly launched, The Lalit’s Elphie Book series.  The entire exercise was aimed at educating children and parents about the sensitive issue of gender stereotypes, concepts of inclusivity and diversity and promote unfettered acceptance. Elphie - The Lalit Mascot, was dressed in rainbow colours is gender non-binary and welcomed all with open arms. The story narration was followed by fun activities for kids.

On the occasion, The Keshav Suri Foundation also announced a scholarship worth ₹ 75,000 for transgender students to study at The LaLiT Suri Hospitality School. The scholarship will be awarded to five deserving candidates and will cover the entire tuition fees. The course being offered is a one and a half year diploma program in Food Production and Bakery.

Stressing on the importance of the day, Mr Keshav Suri, Executive Director of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, and founder of The Keshav Suri Foundation, said, “Education is a basic right and also a tool that helps one lead a life of dignity. The only way we can become an understanding and inclusive society is when the next generation is evolved. Through, Drag Queen Story Hour we want the children and parents to understand and break the constructs of gender. We are launching the scholarship to enable the community to earn a respectable livelihood and remove prevalent phobia in the society,” he said.

The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group has been at the forefront of the inclusivity campaign for the LGBTQI. Hosting the Drag Queen Story Hour on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia will help spread the message that everyone deserves the right to feel proud of who they are.