Kolkata: With less than a week to go for Durga Puja, the transgender community in Kolkata has an added reason to cheer. In a bid to appeal for a more inclusive society, they've come together to organise their own Durga Puja.
Anindya Hajra, an Activist, said, "I think there is a relevance for us because we're asking for our rights, for recognition."
They strike a chord even in their choice of idol.
Anindya Hajra said, "The idol is Ardhanarishwar, which is half-man, half-woman; half-Shiva, half-Parvati."
Not to be left behind, the state government too has introduced a slew of measures to actively involve the community in the Puja festivities. Stalls raising awareness about issues pertaining to transgenders will be set up at various pandals.
State's Women Development and Social Welfare Minister Sashi Panja said, "During forthcoming Durga Puja, we're happy to announce that transgender members of the Board are going to be judges in the Durga Pujo competition which takes place. The idea is inclusion, the idea is building awareness during Pujas."
Discrimination can be willed away overnight but the steps taken this festive season will hopefully keep the ball rolling in the right direction.
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