Transgender Community In Odisha Observes Sabitri Brata With Devotion
Bhubaneswar: Members of the transgender community across Odisha observed Sabitri Brata on Saturday, taking part in the traditional Hindu ritual usually performed by married women for the long life and well-being of their husbands.
Dressed in colourful sarees and traditional ornaments, members of the community performed the rituals with devotion, offering prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. In a unique expression of faith and gratitude, they dedicated their fasts and prayers to their spiritual guide and caregiver, affectionately referred to as “Guru Maa.”
As part of the observance, participants adorned themselves with sindoor, bangles and red dye on their feet, symbolising the traditional signs associated with married Hindu women. The rituals were performed with solemnity and adherence to age-old customs.
President of the All Odisha Transgender and Kinnar Association, Meera Parida, participated in the observance at Palashpalli in Bhubaneswar. She said the transgender community continues to preserve religious traditions while asserting its emotional and spiritual identity within society.
Parida said that despite facing social exclusion, the community maintains a deep connection with womanhood and cultural practices. “Earlier, kinnars used to observe Sabitri Brata for their Guru, but now we are performing it for everyone’s growth and well-being,” she said.
The day began with prayers at the Kedar Gauri Temple, followed by rituals under a banyan tree where devotees prayed to Lord Vishnu for peace, happiness and prosperity for all families.
“We observe Sabitri Brata, but instead of a husband, we pray for the long life of our Guru Maa. When we were turned away by our families, it was Guru Maa who gave us shelter, identity and support. She is our guide, protector and family,” said a member of the transgender community.
The observance reflected devotion, inclusivity and the evolving nature of traditional rituals while embracing diverse lived experiences within society.
