Transgenders ramp up efforts for recognition

NEW DELHI: Tall models sashaying down a makeshift ramp to the tune of Bollywood numbers and a cacophony of hoots, whistles and cheers to greet them. This hybrid dance-cum-fashion show, which took place at the Civil Lines on Thursday, could be like any other-except for one crucial difference: All the models were transgender.
The show, called 'Sapno ki Baraat', was organised by the Society for Peoples' Awareness, Care & Empowerment (SPACE), an organisation dedicated to working for the marginalised sections of society.All the models are associated with SPACE's Zeenat club, which exclusively works with the transgender community.
The show was more than just about fashion and dancing, though. It also served as a launchpad for a year-long skills development programme for transgender people. The programme will focus on development of a number of skills for members of the community, ranging from computer training to hair styling. The project is supported by the Netherlands embassy and Jan-Jaap Gerads, second secretary (political affairs and public diplomacy), was the chief guest at the show.
"LGBT rights are a part of the Netherlands' commitment to human rights. To this end, we support this programme, which, we hope, will help improve things for the community in India," he said.
The show was choreographed by 25-year-old Rakhi -- Falak Gulati in another life. A large part of the audience was from the transgender community, a testament to their growing confidence.
"The show was to show people that we are comfortable as who we are," said Anjan Joshi of SPACE. He said the community has come a long way since the formation of the organisation 15 years ago, but a lot still needs to be done. "Members of the transgender community are still forced to beg to survive. Little has changed on the ground. The stigma associated with the community remains," he said.
But that has not stopped them from dreaming. Niki, one of the models, has bagged a role in a Bollywood film. "I want to be a successful model and actress," she said.