BHUBANESWAR: In a first, renowned photographer Digambar Behera is all set to hold a fashion photo shoot featuring the LGBTQ community at various locations such as Khandagiri, Bundusagar and Ekamravan among others here soon.
Interacting with Orissa Post, Behera said, “Whenever the ‘Vastu’ ritual of a place is performed, transgender individuals are invited and worshipped. They are also called upon during the birth of a baby to offer their blessings. However, the society ridicules them afterwards. Hence, to offer them their rightful place in the society, I have started this unique photo shoot to create awareness about the community.”
Iconography Of Hinduism, Tantra Tradition, Vastyan, Kamasutra and Philosophy Of Agama were some of the sources from where it’s being learnt that transgenders used to be a part of our culture. The national community of LGBT will publish this particular photo-shoot picture on their monthly magazine Real Spirit.
Ancient Indian texts which are relevant to modern LGBTQ causes are also being adapted by transgenders nowadays. Religion has played a role in shaping Indian customs and traditions. While injunctions on homosexuality’s morality are not explicitly mentioned in the religious texts central to Hinduism, it has taken various positions, ranging from homosexual characters and themes in its texts to being neutral or antagonistic towards it.
Meera Parida, Transgender wing, Odisha, said, “Finally the transgender community is getting its due rights. I am very happy that this young photographer Digambar Behera is doing a great job and it’s a salute to the spirit of our people.” It may be noted that Digambar Behera is a student of BK College of Art and Crafts.