Ajmer is hosting the inaugural All India Kinnar Mahasammelan, a 10-day national transgender conference at a private school in Vaishali Nagar. The event commenced with the Khichdi Tulai ritual, a traditional offering to Goddess Bahuchara, the deity revered by the transgender community. By combining religious, cultural, and social elements, the All India Kinnar Mahasammelan in Ajmer marks a historic step toward greater inclusion and recognition of the transgender community in India. This landmark event aims to address key issues, promote awareness, and empower the transgender community across India.
Key Highlights of Conference
- First-ever national transgender conference dedicated to transgender issues in India.
- Organized in memory of Anita Bai, mentor of Gaddipati Saloni Nayak, a respected transgender leader in Ajmer.
- Focuses on social inclusion, cultural recognition, and religious harmony.
- Attended by over 2,000 transgender members from various states. Establishes a platform for discussions on rights, well-being, and cultural heritage.
- Features rituals like Kalash Puja and Chak Pujan, reflecting the spiritual significance of the gathering.
- Strict entry regulations ensure only invited members participate.
- Khichdi Tulai Ritual: It shows the collective faith expression of the transgender community. Ritual offering to Goddess Bahuchara, considered the guardian deity of the community, strengthens community identity and spiritual traditions. Also, it symbolizes solidarity, faith, and cultural heritage.
Objectives of Conference
- Discuss and address challenges faced by the transgender community nationwide.
- Empowerment through cultural integration, religious practices, and policy discussions.
- Strengthen community well-being and advocacy for transgender rights.
- Raise awareness about transgender identity, struggles, and contributions to society.
What is the Transgender Community?
- Transgender individuals are those whose gender identity differs from the sex assigned at birth.
- The community has deep historical and cultural roots in India, with traditional roles as spiritual figures, performers, and community leaders.
- Despite legal recognition, social stigma and exclusion remain major challenges.
- Legal milestones include the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, ensuring rights to education, employment, and healthcare.