In a resounding celebration of solidarity, inclusion, and advocacy, Future Generali India Insurance Company Limited (FGII) marked the beginning of Pride Month with a landmark initiative ‘Walk with Pride’ – organised on 1st June 2025, with a symbolic flag-off at the scenic Bandra Fort in Mumbai.
The purposeful three-kilometre walk, which was led by the Managing Director and CEO, Future Generali India Insurance Company Limited, Mr. Anup Rau, was far more than a ceremonial event. For every participation in the walkathon, FGII pooled in a contribution to the NGO, The Humsafar Trust, towards championing healthcare for the LGBTQIA+ community. Rooted firmly in the organisation’s unwavering commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), the initiative harnessed the collective energy of the LGBTQIA+ community, corporate allies, and advocates to amplify voices and champion the right to safe, dignified, and affirming healthcare.
Over 500 participants, comprising LGBTQIA+ members, corporate supporters, FGII employees and prominent personalities — came together in a vibrant expression of unity, inclusion, and allyship. The event stood as a powerful testament to FGII’s belief that every individual deserves to live and work with dignity, authenticity, and acceptance.
As the global DEI landscape evolves with growing emphasis on LGBTQIA+ equality, ‘Walk with Pride’ was not simply a symbolic gesture, it was a movement that echoed the principles of visibility, respect, and equality.
Speaking on the occasion, Ruchika Varma, Chief Marketing, Customer and Impact Officer, Future Generali India Insurance Company Limited, said, “At Future Generali India Insurance, we view inclusion not as a corporate obligation but as a fundamental responsibility. ‘Walk with Pride’ is not merely a symbolic initiative; it is our earnest expression of solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community. It represents our unwavering belief that diversity must be embraced not only in words but also through tangible action. We are proud to ‘Walk with Pride’, not just during the Pride Month, but every day, in everything we do.”
Taking pride in the first-of-its-kind Corporate Pride Walk, Actor and Philanthropist Mandira Bedi said, “It’s been nearly seven years since the annulment of Article 377, and as a country, we have certainly made progress. Today, members of the LGBTQIA+ community are beginning to live more openly, and society has grown more accepting. But we still have a long way to go. True change will come only when they have equal access to employment opportunities and quality healthcare – because living with dignity is not a privilege, it’s a fundamental right. I commend organisations like Future Generali India Insurance for leading the way by building inclusive workplaces and creating solutions that truly reflect the needs of the community.”
According to Sushant Divgikar, Actor, Singer, Human Rights Activist, “Gone are the days when people belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community were made to feel different and alone in their journey. Today, people are not afraid to come out in the open and the society has also become more accepting. It is important to feel proud about what you are and not allow anyone to judge or decide what is right for you.”
On this momentous occasion, distinguished transgender activist Shreegauri Sawant, who attended the event, said: “Today’s vibe at “Walk With Pride’ at India’s largest corporate Pride Walkathon is very refreshing. There’s an air of positivity, which is infectious. And, I feel, this very spirit is embracing in itself for the members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Meaningful progress begins when we move beyond gender biases and wholeheartedly recognise and respect every individual for their true self.”
Future Generali India Insurance has consistently led with purpose in the DEI space, championing inclusive work environments, mental well-being, and social equity. The ‘Walk with Pride’ initiative was yet another step in translating these values into action.
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