Bhubaneswar: The transgender community across Odisha observed ‘Sabitri Brata’ in a heartfelt and unique way on Monday, a ritual traditionally performed by married Hindu women to pray for the long lives of their husbands.
Draped in vibrant sarees and adorned with traditional ornaments, members of the community participated in rituals typically reserved for married women, offering prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, while dedicating their fasts and devotion to their spiritual guide and caregiver—Guru Maa.
“We are also observing Sabitri Brata, but instead of a husband, we pray for the long life of our Guru Maa. When we left our homes, society did not accept us. It was Guru Maa who took us in, supported us and gave us a sense of belonging. She is everything to us—our guide, protector, and family,” said a devotee from the transgender community.
Ceremonies were observed across several districts in Odisha, with offerings of fruits, flowers, and prayers being made in honor of Savitri—the legendary figure who is believed to have saved her husband Satyavan from the god of death ‘Yamaraj’.
The community also emphasized its spiritual connection to Hindu mythology, particularly to deities representing gender fluidity and duality.
“Our community has always found a connection with Lord Vishnu, especially in his Mohini avatar and the story of Aravan, who was granted the boon of marriage before sacrifice. That is why we continue to worship Lord Vishnu and observe such rituals with devotion,” said Meera Parida, President of the Transgender Community.
In addition to performing religious rituals, devotees honored Ardhanarishvara—a composite form of Shiva and Parvati symbolizing the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies—as a representation of their identity.
“We may not be mothers in the traditional sense, but we nurture and protect just like any other parent. Sabitri Brata is our way of expressing love and gratitude toward our Guru Maa, who plays a central role in our lives. We celebrate by wearing new sarees, applying vermilion, and donning bangles gifted by her, just like any married woman would,” another member added.
The observance by the transgender community has drawn appreciation for promoting inclusivity while honoring age-old traditions through a lens of modern understanding and lived experiences.
