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Editor’s note: This creative piece could well be categorised as a photostory and yet the text in this one has its own power. Therefore this is kept in the essay section.

In the bustling city of joy, where life moved at a frenetic pace, I found myself, like every Sunday, wandering the vibrant streets with my camera in hand, in search of stories that often hid in the corners of Kolkata. Little did I know that this day would mark the beginning of a poignant tale of metamorphosis. Beneath the shade of a tree, near the tranquil Ganges bank, I sat lost in contemplation. It was then that a gentle voice broke the solitude, offering me a mat for added comfort. Turning to acknowledge the stranger, I was met with a sight both striking and unexpected. Before me stood a figure exuding grace and resilience, a sweet smile adorning her face.

Intrigued by her uniqueness, I positioned my camera to capture the essence of this extraordinary soul. However, she, in her determined voice, cautioned against such candidness. Apologies were exchanged, but what followed was an invitation to delve deeper into the life of this enigmatic stranger. My promise to listen with an open heart kindled a spark in her eyes. She spoke of a life shaped by challenges, triumphs, and the pursuit of self-discovery. Meet the remarkable individual, Moni Gazi, whose journey defies societal norms and transcends the boundaries of conventional identity. This courageous soul has been navigating the complexities of life as a transgender person in a society that often fails to understand and accept her, starting from her childhood. Born into a life of complexities, she weathered the storms of a problematic childhood marked by a loving bond with her mother but marred by traumatic relationships with her stepfather and stepbrother. The memories of her mother's affection offered solace, yet the wounds inflicted by those who should have protected her ran deep. After her mother's passing, she found herself cast out by her stepbrother's family, left to navigate a world of uncertainty alone.

The family and the immediate community abandoned her because of her individuality, and she was forced to leave her city for the sake of their societal status.Leaving behind the shadows of her past, she arrived in Kolkata, hoping for a fresh start. However, the city proved to be both a testing ground and a refuge. As she struggled to survive, she encountered exploitation at the hands of those around her, a painful reminder of the harsh realities faced by many in her situation. In her darkest moments, she even contemplated harming herself, a testament to the weight of her trials. Yet, within her lay an inner strength that refused to be extinguished. Through the hardships, she discovered her artistic talents—a dancer who could convey emotions through movement, a singer who could touch hearts with her voice, and a storyteller who could weave magic with words. These talents became her lifeline, allowing her to express the depths of her emotions and connect with others on a profound level. In Kolkata, fate brought her to the doorstep of another transgender individual. A chance meeting that would change her life forever. This newfound friend became a beacon of hope, guiding her out of the shadows of her personal trauma. With unwavering support and genuine friendship, she found the courage to accept her identity gracefully. Through their connection, her confidence bloomed, and she began to stand tall in her own skin. 

Yet, as life often presents its bitter truths, the pandemic brought with it a heart-wrenching loss. Her friend passed away, and she faced the devastating reality of laying her to rest alone. In the midst of her own grief, she embodied strength once more, ensuring her friend received a proper farewell. This experience further fuelled her determination to create a life of her own, marked by resilience and self-sufficiency.

And so, she left behind the place that had been her sanctuary, settling near Millennium Park. Here, she built a humble hut, a haven that echoed her journey—one of forging new beginnings amidst adversity. It was in this space that she adopted a dog, nurturing a bond that mirrored the companionship she had found with her friend. Yet, her purpose extended beyond her four-legged companion.

She forgave her stepbrother's family and often visited them for casual meetups, providing financial assistance to help them build their home. Her experiences had transformed her into a storyteller, not just of her own trials, but of the human spirit's ability to transcend hardships. She shared her story, her words of wisdom, and her unyielding motivation with others facing their own battles. Her story became a source of strength, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the power of resilience. Her dreams are very simple but profound. She longs for a regular job that would afford her the respect and dignity she deserves. To earn her livelihood with her head held high and a house of her own are her ultimate aspirations, a manifestation of her desire to stand as an equal in society.

AN APEAL 

Moni Gazi's remarkable journey, one that defies societal norms and transcends the boundaries of conventional identity, is a testament to the human spirit's boundless capacity for resilience and transformation. As we reflect on her story, we are reminded of the countless individuals who face similar challenges, often in silence. It is a poignant plea for us, as a society, to open our hearts and minds, to extend our empathy and understanding to those whose paths have been marked by adversity. In the spirit of unity and compassion, we invite anyone willing to help Moni Gazi in her pursuit of a job that would afford her the respect and dignity she deserves to reach out via email at doublespeakmag@gmail.com.  Together, we can be agents of change, forging a world where every person, regardless of their background or identity, can stand tall as equals in our diverse society. Let us remember that every individual has a unique story, a story worthy of acknowledgment and support. By coming together in empathy and solidarity, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Lovingly yours

Rajeev Singh

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Rajeev Singh is a Science graduate from University of Allahabad and a MBA from UP technical University. He is an entrepreneur by profession and a Photographer by passion. He started his photographic journey almost 25 years ago with a film point and shoot camera and it’s been a journey of continuous learning and understanding of the art. As a photographer he loves to share the inner beauty of those with whom he shares his slices of life and the outer beauty of their world through images. His goal is to offer a little hope to other human beings, in the process. He mostly clicks candid portraits to capture spontaneous emotions, street photographs to capture the pain and pleasure of daily life, landscapes to freeze the beauty in nature, architectures and landmarks to celebrate human creativity and craft and, last but note the least, the ruins to explore the lost stories.