The LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) scene in the city is said to be very vibrant with a plethora of events being conducted throughout the year, right from gay pride marches, queer film festivals to literary events. But speed dating parties within the community aren’t very common here. Speed dating parties are for getting to know more people and not necessarily to find a partner.
“We regularly have parties here, but not speed dating parties. I don’t think we need them or will ever have them. They are more common in Chennai because the LGBT community is not ‘out’ there,” said a source who requested anonymity.
Speed dating parties can have different connotations. “It’s about getting to know people from a huge spectrum and different walks of life. And speed dating makes it easier. Bangalore has been very open that way. In fact, a lot of pubs have contacted us since they have realised there is huge potential within the LGBT space, as we end up having 2-3 parties almost every weekend,” says L Romal M Singh, gay activist.
Samuel Konnur, one of the organisers of the Bangalore Queer Pride March, says, “We don’t have dating parties here and even if we do, they are rare. Since it’s a small community, everyone knows everyone else; we don’t really need a dating party to hook up.”
The LGBT scene in Mumbai is considered big too and speed dating parties are very common there. Groups like ‘Gay Bombay’ conduct these parties regularly. Mumbai-based activist Harrish Iyer, who has been featured as one of India’s most influential gays and lesbians in Pink Pages, India’s National Gay and Lesbian magazine, says, “Bangalore has a very open and creative gay culture. With many IT companies, which have an ‘equal opportunities’ clause, it is quite the Queer Mecca. Plus the spirit of Bangalore and it’s undying enthusiasm is magnetic.”