Longing for my family
We all claim to be in twenty-first century. We try to boast that so much has been done in this
world in terms of science and technology but has that made any impact on our human consciousness! Has education or improvement in lifestyles have sensitised us towards neglected sections of this world in any manner! Is there any respect for those who may be genetically flawed but are mild and genial! When will we start thinking as human beings not as a
research oriented men and women?
Life recently gave me an experience that I wish to share with you. Perhaps it can change mindsets of some high-sounding gentle men and women
The marriage procession was swinging to the notable music from the Indian movies. All were enjoying the traditional song and dance. The Bridegroom made a demand, why not to play famous Garwhal song, ‘Ber pako barah masa ‘ . Being his moment of glory, it was readily accepted. Suddenly the mood was interrupted by a complaining noise. An elderly woman was seen arguing with an aged eunuch whose
presence was being seen as a nuisance . Everyone wanted to have his or her fun moment so from barbs and dirty jokes ever thing was being hurled at this genderless person. All I could make out was ,that all resisted his presence amidst sophisticated atmosphere. I took him aside and nudged him to take the money, bless, and leave the place as soon as possible.
But he stood stand still and then spoke feebly, I am one of you bhulu(Young brother).I am a garwhali by birth but when I grew up neglected and humiliated, I left that place to join this life. Today when I heard this old folk song, I could not resist myself from approaching you but this cruel destiny has made to get neglection and hurt from my own people. He simply made a blessing gesture and walked away leaving me dumbfounded.
I was shocked and hurt. One often comes across names of social organisations and journalists who claim to work for genderless society but has this made any improvement in our thinking. In India eunuches want to be known as Manglamukhi (Auspicious ones).They are also addressed as kinnars,Hijras .As in any traditional society, sexual impotence is seen as a shame so you can watch these neglected persons as a matter of mockery and aversion. Ironically though theirs very presence is expected in every auspicious occasion, however these innocent persons were and are always being used by all.
First they are matter of ridicule in all type of society. Then they are exploited in name of social or medical research such as study material on S.T.D.’S and A.I.D.S. and so-called activism( litigation, articles on official apathy or any thing that fetches name, fame and opportunity to socialise). From numerous articles to documentary films, every thing is made on them. Glossies carry new item, T.V. news channels show them in humorous manner but all with a selfish motive. All want to cash plight of these hapless section of society.
Ironically, this section has been granted prominence in past by Indian, Chinese and Persian rulers but now they are butt of crude jokes for all. WHEN THERE WILL BE CHANGE IN OUR MENTALITY! When will we think that there is life away from research figures, reports, and pathetic newsreels? Why cannot there be a law that provides safety to this section that is neither weak nor ignorant but much neglected by all. Every time when some high profile starts glib talk on A.I.D.S., all I want is to ask him or her to involve this gender less society who can contribute as much as we normal body can!
Like all faithful, I pray to my respective deity to take care of all who are weak and neglected and give sense to all who flying high to their own nests
(Ashish Dimri, a freelancing Journalist wrote this article. There may be terms hurtful to some but please bear up for the sake of motive)