In The NewsFor better or for worse social change in India is happening at such a rapid pace it’s difficult to keep up. On the subject of gender and sexual identity it seems the struggle for visibility and dialogue is ramping up. Last year one of the invited guests on Oprah the segment “Gays Around the World” was Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil of Rajpipla. The prince’s coming out was so scandalous the royal family disowned him. I was very impressed with how he presented himself on the show and how dignified and courageous he appeared.
Today, I came across this article and photograph in a popular gossip newspaper. The article is extraordinary in its matter-of-fact coverage. Hijras (Eunuchs) are common if not accepted in Indian culture however the subject of this article clearly identifies herself as transgender, out and proud.
Times are a changing!