HIDDEN QUEENS OF DHAKA

Homosexuality in Bangladesh is considered as a crime. Sexual or emotional relationships between persons of the same sex are punishable by imprisonment, with penalties of up to life sentence.

Violent attacks on gay community are increasing day by day and often with the intention of killing. Recently, on April 26 2016, two gay activists have been massacred in Dhaka with machetes.

Since 2013 the Hijras have gained the recognition of certain basic rights such as education, health, home and have been defined as a “third sex”. Nevertheless, they continue to be victims of daily episodes of social discrimination and abuse, both verbal and physical. This discriminatory situation compels hijras and homosexuals to live together in communities with real hierarchies and internal rules. A "guru", usually the most experienced one, decide who to admit within the group: young newcomers are so forced to begging and prostitution.

In the meantime, according to an ancient Indian tradition of Ramayana, some of them are called to "bless" infants through a ritual made of songs and dances, which are considered as a good omen for the future of the child.