Selin Thomas (First from left)
Pathanamthitta: Selin Thomas is an influential leader in New Delhi. She goes by the title of ‘Naik Sardar’ in the 35,000 strong transgender community she leads. From a denounced seminarian to a transgender activist, she has transcended the extremes of existences to rise to her present leadership role.
Selin Thomas aka Lakshmi Selin talked to Onmanorama in Pathanamthitta. She was invited to her home state to talk at a youth forum organized in connection with the Maramon Convention on Thursday.
On roots
I was born at Koorambala near Pandalam. My father’s job later took the family to Kulathooppuzha. I went to a school there.
Life as a seminarian
I wanted to be a Catholic priest. I joined the Bethany seminary in Thiruvananthapuram. Within six months, some of my classmates and priests had doubts about my gender. When they realized that I was transgender, they expelled me from the seminary.
Turning point
I was so fed up with my life that I wanted to end it all. I was standing on a railway track in Chennai when a woman pushed me out of the way of a train. I fell along with my bag out of danger’s way. She came near me and told me that this was not a way to end life. She dared me to live. She took me to a community of transgenders.
Medicos career
After I completed my pre degree course, I wanted to join a medical college. My community ensured that I received admission in the Bengaluru Medical College but I had to drop out later.
Towards Delhi
I have been working in Delhi for more than 25 years. There are lakhs of transgenders in the city. I lead a group of 35,000 transgenders as their ‘Naik Sardar’.
Challenges galore
Most of them are unemployed. They live in groups in the streets of big cities. They are often invited to houses on special occasions and weddings.
Overcoming obstacles
I was tempted to make a living through prostitution but the bible showed me the right direction. I am a sworn celibate. I view men and women alike.
Future plans
I want to rehabilitate lakhs of marginalized transgenders and help them learn a trade and find self-employment.
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