Future Generali India Insurance Company Limited (FGII) marked the beginning of Pride Month by organising a corporate walkathon titled Walk with Pride on 1 June 2025. The event began with a flag-off at Bandra Fort in Mumbai.
The three-kilometre walk, led by Anup Rau, Managing Director and CEO of FGII, was held in support of healthcare access for the LGBTQIA+ community. For each participant, FGII contributed to The Humsafar Trust, an NGO working in this space. The initiative aligns with the company’s focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
More than 500 individuals took part in the event, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, FGII employees, corporate supporters, and public figures.
Ruchika Varma, Chief Marketing, Customer and Impact Officer, FGII, 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.”
Actor and philanthropist Mandira Bedi, who attended the event, 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.”
Sushant Divgikar, actor, singer, and human rights activist, said, "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."
Transgender activist Shreegauri Sawant, also present at the walk, 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."
FGII has been active in DEI initiatives, including workplace inclusion, mental health awareness, and social equity. The Walk with Pride event is part of its broader strategy in these areas.
