Tracking 'their' journey

All of us have seen them in trains, at traffic signals, etc. begging, blessing, asking, even bothering people for a rupee or two. Don't you think they should also have the same rights as we do?This is because equality is needed.What right do we have to discriminate? They should also have a chance to express. Be human. That's all I ask of you.  

I am talking about trans-genders. No need to be hush - hush. It isn't a taboo word. It is present in our scriptures. Aren't they holy and pious? Then, so are transgenders. They bless you. But do you care?

 Today, I am going to track the trans-gender's journey in popular media, other countries, even other states, and even in our own beloved country, in mythology. Consider this:

1. In Shyam Benegal's critically acclaimed film, 'Welcome to Sajjanpur', we all have seen how a trans-gender comes to power. It is time we realise their political rights and support them. Otherwise, the world's largest democracy wouldn't be a democracy in the true sense of the word. 

The fact that we have such filmmakers in India is phenomenally great, isn't it?

2. In Bangkok, transgenders participate and perform in shows and concerts. They also work as serving staff in hotels. Don't you wish we had more respect and awareness like this in India?

The media should show how there is a change of attitude towards transgenders and the treatment meted out to them. They are just like all of us, like you and me, a part of society. So why cant we accept them? They have made their presence felt in our culture right from the times of the Mahabharat and the Mughals. So what problem do today's people have? Why are they not comfortable co-existing with the transgenders?

3. In the Mahabharata, as the result of a curse he was compelled to honor, the hero Arjuna takes a "vow of eunuchism," that is, to live as the third sex for a year, Vrihannala by name.

Another important character, Shikhandi, is born female, but raised as a boy. Shikhandi becomes a skilled and famous warrior, playing a pivotal role in the war by helping kill Bhishma. 

4. A recent example of the portrayal of transgenders in popular cinema is Agneepath.

Most of you have seen Agneepath. But have most of you voted? No. Why? 

Realise how fortunate you are that you get to vote! Do not show apathy towards anyone! Do you realise how important a vote is for our democracy? अरे तुम क्या जानो एक मत की कीमत ?

5. India gives each citizen three basic political rights. They are as follows:

i) Each citizen is entitled to exercise the universal adult franchise that is vote if s/he is above 18 years of age. There can be no discrimination on the basis of gender, caste , creed, region etc.

Exactly my point!

ii) Each citizen can participate in the working of his democracy. He can raise a voice to change the system. One has the right to get elected in elections, stand as an individual party candidate. Consider this: In fact in Madhya Pradesh, there is a trans-gender minister. Shouldn't Maharashtra take inspiration from  M.P and try to do the same. After all, imitation is the biggest form of appreciation, not flattery.

iii) Each citizen has the right to criticise the government. Exactly what I am doing.

Did you know this ? or the facts stated below?

 That India gets its first trans-gender pastor! 

Pak eunuchs get new identity.

Even if you knew, do you care? Show me if you do.