In a remarkable display of dedication to both her community and political aspirations, Durga Bai Majhwar, affectionately known as Durga Mausi, donned the attire of the Hindu goddess Durga for a ritual at the Maa Sharda Temple in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh. This unique portrayal comes as Durga Bai Majhwar, India’s first transgender sarpanch, steps into the political arena as an Independent candidate for the Damoh Lok Sabha constituency.
At 36 years old, Durga Bai Majhwar has already made history as the first sarpanch from the transgender or Kinnar community in India. Her journey from the village of Kanhwara in Madhya Pradesh’s Katni district to the forefront of politics is both inspiring and emblematic of the changing landscape of Indian democracy.
Elected as sarpanch of her village in 2014, Durga Bai Majhwar’s leadership was extended beyond the typical tenure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During her tenure, she worked tirelessly to address the myriad issues facing her community, earning the trust and support of the people she served. Her decision to contest the Lok Sabha election stems from a desire to continue serving her constituents on a larger scale.
Durga Bai Majhwar’s candidacy has transformed the electoral landscape in Damoh, turning what was once a straightforward Lodhi vs. Lodhi contest into a triangular battle. She faces off against the BJP’s Rahul Lodhi and the Congress’ Sarwar Singh Lodhi, presenting voters with a diverse range of choices.
Beyond her role as a politician, Durga Bai Majhwar is also a spiritual leader, holding the esteemed position of mahamandaleshwar of a Kinnar Akhara. Her multifaceted identity reflects the complexity and richness of India’s cultural tapestry.
While Durga Bai Majhwar may be the first transgender sarpanch from Madhya Pradesh, she follows in the footsteps of trailblazers like Shabnam Mausi, who became India’s first transgender MLA by winning the Sohagpur seat in Shahdol district in 2000. Despite facing challenges and obstacles along the way, these pioneers have paved the way for greater inclusivity and representation in Indian politics.
As Durga Bai Majhwar embarks on her electoral journey, she carries with her the hopes and aspirations of not only the transgender community but also all those who believe in the power of democracy to create positive change. Her candidacy symbolizes the ongoing march towards equality and justice for all citizens of India.
