Queers, allies to conduct arts fest

The city will play host to the Queer and Allies Art Festival (QAAF) 2018, which will witness art installations, an art exhibition, movies and performances by queer and queer-friendly artists from across the country.

The festival is being hosted by Mist, an online collective of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender activists (LGBT) from across the country.

It will also have an open mic night of music, poetry reading, dance and stand up comedy, among others.

The solo dance rendition by Sonali Dalvi, a dancer who aims to bring awareness on the trans community through her performance, will be the highlight of the festival.

It will also have poetry rendering by poet and LGBT rights activist Sayantika Majumder, besides screening of films on LGBT issues like 'We Did Not Fall From the Sky' and 'The Boy'.

"In its fourth edition this year, the event aims to bring the queer community and the allies together to break misconceptions and stereotypes, while also providing a great platform for the community to showcase their talents," said Shyam Konnur, founding member of Mist and a CSR professional.

Konnur added that the event has led to positive changes in the way the mainstream society perceives the community. "We have a lot of allies who join hands with us to showcase their talents. The event has also led to some amazing collaborations and projects," he said.

The festival will be held at Commune Coworks, V Block, Koramangala, on Saturday.