The Hijra Pride
The capital saw an unprecedented parade on November 10 last year. Hijras marched the popular public spots in colourful processions with placards urging the society to change its views of the transgenders, on the first anniversary of the government's decision to recognise the third-gendered people.
The hijras in multicoloured saris danced exultantly in the streets while some others sat atop horse-drawn carriages adorned with blue and pink balloons. Some were seen painting motifs of varied designs with henna on the hands of passersby during the parades, organised jointly by the social welfare ministry and the UNAIDS Bangladesh.
In 2009, Bangladesh allowed hijras to vote for the first time.
Hijra Pride 2014 began with what organisers called the Dhaka Declaration -- a statement to the government and the law enforcement agencies demanding a comprehensive law to address the issues still faced by the transgendered in Bangladesh.
Photo: Anisur Rahman
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