Revathi: A Life in Trans Activism

Born in Southern India to a conservative family of modest means, it wasn't long before Revathi noticed she wasn't comfortable participating in life as a man. This realisation set her on a long and winding search for survival and for a life on her terms. From the supportive yet strict-and at times exploitative-hijra communities to non-profit spaces rife with other forms of discrimination, Revathi made a name for herself as a fearless advocate for sexual minorities and Dalit rights. In an intimate, months-long conversation with Nandini Murali, Revathi speaks not only about her own journey but also about the obstacles and challenges faced by another, oft-overlooked part of Indian society: trans men. The result is a free-flowing and brutal account of life on the margins that is also shot through with the bright lights of friendship, determination, and solidarity.

Born in the district of Namakkal in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, A. Revathi is an author, actor, and activist for sexual minorities. Her pre- vious works include UNARVUM URUVAMUM (OUR LIVES, OUR WORDS)and THE TRUTH ABOUT ME: A HIJRA LIFE STORY, and she has featured in the films Thenavattu and Antharam.