The ELLE X Lakmé Pride Month Party at Soho House, Mumbai was a starry affair. If it were to be described in Gen Z terms, it would be called a “vibe.” There was upbeat music (obviously, Ma Faiza was at the console); an energetic atmosphere and lively conversations. ELLE unveiled the much anticipated Pride Cover, featuring the trailblazers from the queer community in India: Bani J, Faraz Arif Ansari, Trinetra, and Ma Faiza. This celebration was unlike any other. It was an extravaganza featuring the biggest names in fashion and lifestyle from the LGBTQIA+ community.
This event particularly stands out as it creates a space for young queer people, a first for any publication in the country. Talking about the importance of representation and its impact, Ainee Nizami Ahmedi, the Editor of ELLE India, says, “The Pride Party hosted by ELLE India was a vibrant celebration of love, acceptance, and self-expression. It brought together a kaleidoscope of colours, voices, and identities, creating a powerful tapestry of inclusivity and unity. In a world that still struggles with acceptance, this event stood as a testament to the beauty of diversity and the strength of the LGBTQ+ community.”
Cover Release
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The star power at the ELLE x Lakmé pride party could light up a room. The cover was unveiled amidst much excitement. On the cover were four stalwarts: Bani J, a household name because of her rabble-rouser character Umang in the ongoing Four More Shots Please! series; acclaimed filmmaker Faraz Arif Ansari of Sheer Qorma fame; Dr. Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju, one of India’s first openly transgender doctors; and Ma Faiza, the renowned 53-year-old DJ and music producer, who is often proclaimed the ‘Mother of Electronica’.
A Pop Of Colour With Lakmé
The event’s beauty partner Lakmé elevated the ambience, ushering in a dash of colour with their pride special pop-up. Attracting an array of decked-up attendees who wanted to accentuate their looks, the booth became a space to get your glam going as attendees could try some of Lakmé’s best-selling products.
Console and Cocktails
What’s a celebration without beats that has everyone on the dance floor? The super talented DJ Priyam Vada had everyone grooving to familiar foot-tapping numbers. A special set of high-octane electronica performed by our cover star Ma Faiza made the night an unforgettable one. Adding to the energy, cocktails like Weak In The Knees, Fen-Elle Gibson, and Passion and Pride by Bombay Sapphire were definitely one of the highlights.
Makeup and Beauty Partner: Lakmé India
Celebration Partner: Bombay Sapphire
