In 2019, Srija made history as the first transgender woman to legally wed in Tamil Nadu, India, following a significant court ruling. Their heartfelt story, now chronicled in the documentary "Amma's Pride," reveals Srija's arduous quest for recognition and her mother Valli's steadfast support throughout. “Srija is a gift,” Valli, 45, expressed, underscoring the rarity of such familial affirmation among transgender individuals.
Srija, 25, from Thoothukudi, acknowledges her mother's contributions to her achievements, including education, employment, and marriage. Their journey began when Srija met her future spouse, Arun, at a temple in 2017. Initially bonded through mutual friends, they soon fell for each other as Arun learned about Srija's identity as a transgender woman. "We wanted legal recognition to live like any other couple," Srija explained, highlighting the protective aspects of legal marriage.
While India has moved towards recognizing transgender rights, including marriage, the stark reality remains. Traditionally, many transgender individuals face discrimination, often leading to secretive relationships. Despite this, Srija and Arun chose to publicly navigate the legal landscape when they faced obstacles in registering their marriage under outdated laws. With support from LGBT activists, they took their case to the Madras High Court, which ruled in their favor, redefining the traditional meanings of "bride" and "groom."
Media attention, however, brought challenges. Arun faced job loss and online harassment, illustrating the societal backlash against their union. Yet, Srija excelled academically, later achieving a degree—an accomplishment that Valli takes immense pride in, having sacrificed her own comfort for her daughter's happiness and well-being.
Despite broader legal recognition, discrimination persists as many transgender individuals struggle with significant challenges, including mental health issues and limited opportunities. Valli's firm belief in family support provides a glimmer of hope: "All trans people should be supported by their family," she maintains.
Their compelling documentary aims to change perceptions, showcasing Srija's aspirations for progressive portrayals of transgender lives beyond trauma. Following its international premiere, "Amma's Pride" continues to resonate within the community, sparking dialogue on acceptance and support while spreading a message of resilience. As Srija and Arun look forward to starting a family of their own, Valli dreams of becoming a grandmother—an emblem of love that transcends societal prejudice, promising a brighter future.
Srija, 25, from Thoothukudi, acknowledges her mother's contributions to her achievements, including education, employment, and marriage. Their journey began when Srija met her future spouse, Arun, at a temple in 2017. Initially bonded through mutual friends, they soon fell for each other as Arun learned about Srija's identity as a transgender woman. "We wanted legal recognition to live like any other couple," Srija explained, highlighting the protective aspects of legal marriage.
While India has moved towards recognizing transgender rights, including marriage, the stark reality remains. Traditionally, many transgender individuals face discrimination, often leading to secretive relationships. Despite this, Srija and Arun chose to publicly navigate the legal landscape when they faced obstacles in registering their marriage under outdated laws. With support from LGBT activists, they took their case to the Madras High Court, which ruled in their favor, redefining the traditional meanings of "bride" and "groom."
Media attention, however, brought challenges. Arun faced job loss and online harassment, illustrating the societal backlash against their union. Yet, Srija excelled academically, later achieving a degree—an accomplishment that Valli takes immense pride in, having sacrificed her own comfort for her daughter's happiness and well-being.
Despite broader legal recognition, discrimination persists as many transgender individuals struggle with significant challenges, including mental health issues and limited opportunities. Valli's firm belief in family support provides a glimmer of hope: "All trans people should be supported by their family," she maintains.
Their compelling documentary aims to change perceptions, showcasing Srija's aspirations for progressive portrayals of transgender lives beyond trauma. Following its international premiere, "Amma's Pride" continues to resonate within the community, sparking dialogue on acceptance and support while spreading a message of resilience. As Srija and Arun look forward to starting a family of their own, Valli dreams of becoming a grandmother—an emblem of love that transcends societal prejudice, promising a brighter future.
