Nepal's Pride takes a solemn turn amid devastating floods

Amidst tragedy, Nepal’s LGBTQ+ community pauses for reflection and solidarity.

Told by Claire Lawson · 31 August 2026

This year, Nepal's Blue Diamond Society (BDS) chose to forgo its typical Pride and Gai Jatra festivities in favor of a candlelight vigil, highlighting a community united in grief. The decision came as the nation grapples with devastating floods that have claimed lives and disrupted countless communities.

On August 30, BDS took to Instagram to express their intent to 'remember, mourn, support and care together.' Instead of festivities, the gathering served as a solemn tribute to both those lost in the recent floods and members of Nepal’s gender and sexual minority communities who have passed away over the past year.

The vigil was not just about remembrance; it also served as a platform for community solidarity. Hon. Bhumika Shrestha acknowledged the importance of standing together during such crises, while BDS President Umisha Pandey reaffirmed, 'We stand with our nation in this difficult hour.'

In a gesture of support, BDS also pledged NPR 100,000 to Nepal's Prime Minister’s Relief Fund, underlining the message that 'Our Pride is also our solidarity.'