Watch: Promises made to Manipur’s transgenders yet to see light of day

In 2020, Beoncy Laishram became the first trans woman doctor from Manipur, breaking stereotypes around transgenders in her state. Beoncy’s story of struggle made it to the headlines, and she became a symbol of hope for the trans community in Manipur, locally known as Nupi Manbis.

“To go into a difficult field, you have to face all those difficult things. Without facing all those things, you cannot be a successful person,” said Laishram.

While Laishram’s story has done wonders for her community, many locals still hold to the notion that trans people work only in beauty parlours. Trans-activist Santa Khurai says it has become a stereotype over time.