The recent documentary, Amma's Pride, chronicles the inspiring journey of Srija, the first transgender woman to legally marry in Tamil Nadu, reflecting on the profound support of her mother, Valli.
Amma's Pride: A Mother’s Unwavering Support in the Fight for Trans Rights
Amma's Pride: A Mother’s Unwavering Support in the Fight for Trans Rights
A groundbreaking documentary highlights the story of Srija, Tamil Nadu's first transgender woman to marry legally, and her mother Valli's unconditional love and support.
In a heartwarming tale of resilience and love, Srija, who made history in 2019 as the first transgender woman to legally marry a non-trans man in Tamil Nadu, shares her journey in the new documentary, Amma's Pride. This film showcases the vital role of her mother, Valli, who has stood by her side through the trials of societal discrimination and personal challenges.
At just 25, Srija’s story is about more than legal recognition; it’s about familial support that allowed her to pursue education, a job, and love in a society that often marginalizes transgender individuals. "My education, my job, my marriage - everything was possible because of my mother's support," Srija reflects, acknowledging the sacrifices Valli made, including selling her jewelry to help fund Srija’s gender reassignment surgery.
The documentary reveals their unbreakable bond in the face of difficulties, such as being evicted from their home after Srija came out at 17. Valli emphasizes, “I will always stand by my daughter. All trans people should be supported by their family.” Despite the discrimination they faced, including job loss and online harassment, the couple’s determination resulted in a historical court ruling that recognized their marriage.
Prominent filmmaker Shiva Krish notes that while many transgender individuals in India remain hidden due to fear of persecution, Srija and Valli's open story represents a beacon of hope and change. The hope is to challenge negative stereotypes surrounding the transgender community and highlight stories of triumph and family acceptance.
Screened at various international festivals and community events, Amma's Pride seeks to bridge connections between transgender individuals and their families across India, as well as neighboring nations. As Srija and Arun dream of building a family, Valli looks forward to becoming a grandmother soon, encapsulating the aspirations of a family once fought against societal norms.
With Srija and Valli’s pioneering story, Amma’s Pride aspires to inspire broader acceptance and showcase the importance of family support, hoping to illuminate the narrative of the transgender experience beyond trauma and stigmatization.
