charley5 wrote:
I am getting a lot of heated replies on FB groups after posting this image, implying that I have some kind of agenda (such as the controversy surrounding transgender athletes). That is a shame, because this image is intended as pure documentary. However, I did research the text in my original post, and so I offered more than the image. I feel like it is sometimes important to give a context, and in this case it is that India is becoming more open-minded about such minorities, who historically have been on the fringes of society, with some devastating consequences for them.
Coming from India, and seeing a lot of transgender people in specific parts of the country while growing up, I couldn't but agree with you more. When I was a kid, there was a great taboo around transgenders (I'm sure it still is there). We were always uncomfortable (unfortunately) seeing them around while growing up, without knowing their hardships in their lives. I'm glad my country is opening up in a lot of social aspects of life, but it still has a long long way to go. Without documenting and bringing them to light, no social stigma is ever discussed and progress can't be achieved (out of site, out of mind). Nay Sayers are always there. Best is to ignore them. Great Work!!
Coming from India, and seeing a lot of transgender people in specific parts of the country while growing up, I couldn't but agree with you more. When I was a kid, there was a great taboo around transgenders (I'm sure it still is there). We were always uncomfortable (unfortunately) seeing them around while growing up, without knowing their hardships in their lives. I'm glad my country is opening up in a lot of social aspects of life, but it still has a long long way to go. Without documenting and bringing them to light, no social stigma is ever discussed and progress can't be achieved (out of site, out of mind). Nay Sayers are always there. Best is to ignore them. Great Work!!
Thanks, Sreedhar. I felt they have found a niche in the theater. There is also a transgender group (cult or society) of beggars throughout India, who offer blessings to those who are generous, and something different to those who are not. Do you know their name?
charley5 wrote:
Thanks, Sreedhar. I felt they have found a niche in the theater. There is also a transgender group (cult or society) of beggars throughout India, who offer blessings to those who are generous, and something different to those who are not. Do you know their name?
-Charles
Charles,
Yes, they are called "hijras". Hijra is an Arabic word. They pretty much are into all the train stations and all spots where begging is predominant. In a way, they are the originals (as much as I know of). Its a tricky situation with them. It is impossible to be empathetic to them and the same time not getting annoyed/surrounded by them (when they know you offered some money to one, they will surround you).
Sreedhar.
Yes, they are called "hijras". Hijra is an Arabic word. They pretty much are into all the train stations and all spots where begging is predominant. In a way, they are the originals (as much as I know of). Its a tricky situation with them. It is impossible to be empathetic to them and the same time not getting annoyed/surrounded by them (when they know you offered some money to one, they will surround you).
Sreedhar.
Nice. Thanks for letting me know, Sreedhar. They would make great photographic subjects, as they have a special energy or "shakti".
