A theatre troupe of persons of the third gender is holding a two-day theatre festival at Hasanamba Kalakshetra in Hassan from November 8.
As many as 20 transgenders will be presenting Mohini Bhasmasura , based on a mythological story, on the second day as part of the festival.
Swapna and Arundhathi, founders of Ardhanareeshwara Kalabhivruddhi Trust, in a press conference in Hassan on Wednesday, said the troupe will hold the festival in all district centres.
“We face humiliation everywhere. Our family do not respect our identity. Most of our community people are into either begging or sex work. We don’t get other jobs. Even if we get one, we would have face to humiliation at the workplace,” said Swapna.
In order to spread awareness on transgenders among the public, Swapna with the help of her friends started Ardhanareeshwara Kalabhivruddhi Trust. Helen of Mysuru trained the actors and directed the play Mohini Bhasmasura .
“We want to show the world, we are also talented,” said Arundhati, a postgraduate in sociology. She had the support of her family members to study. Later she left home as her sisters and brothers found it difficult to get married because of her identity.
“The government has brought in policies to help the community. But, the officers who have to implement them are ignorant about the policies. We face difficulty to get our documents processed. I hope activities like theatre festival would help change the attitude of common people towards our community”, she said.
Both appealed to the public to watch the plays and encourage the team. As part of the festival, plays Peddammana Peekalata and Gundu Balaga will be staged on November 8 at 4 p.m.
The next day Pralayadachege and Mohini Bhasmasura will be staged. The entry is free.
