Hemangi Sakhi Ma, a transgender person, is making waves in politics by running against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Varanasi constituency during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.
Representing the Uttar Pradesh branch of Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha (ABHM), Sakhi Ma’s candidacy is a significant moment for transgender representation in Indian politics. ABHM, a Hindu right-wing group, plans to contest 20 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, including Varanasi, where voting is set for June 1.
Varanasi, a stronghold of Prime Minister Modi, saw him win with a large vote share of 63% in the 2019 elections. However, the opposition, including the Congress and the Samajwadi Party, aims to challenge his dominance, with the Congress nominating Ajai Rai as their candidate.
Sakhi Ma’s journey to this point is as remarkable as her candidacy. Born in Baroda, Gujarat, she moved to Mumbai for education and later ventured into the entertainment industry. However, her spiritual journey shaped her path. Finding solace and devotion at the ISKCON temple, she eventually became known as Hemangi Sakhi Ma, the world’s first transgender ‘kathawachak’ (narrator) of Bhagavad Gita.
Her commitment to spreading spiritual teachings led her to perform Bhagavad Katha, Ram Katha, and Devi Bhagvat Katha on various platforms worldwide, showcasing her talent and challenging stereotypes.
In a historic moment in February 2019, Sakhi Ma was coronated as Acharya Mahamandaleshwar at Kumbh and honored with the title of Bhagwatbhushan Mahamandaleshwar by the Akhil Bharatiya Sadhu Samaj. Recognized for her contributions, she was also bestowed the title of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar by the Adya Shankar Kailash Peeth, Uttar Godavari dham.
Hemangi Sakhi Ma’s decision to enter politics and contest against Prime Minister Modi underscores the growing diversity and inclusivity in Indian politics. Her candidacy serves as a symbol of empowerment for the transgender community and highlights the importance of representation in democratic processes. As the elections approach, all eyes will be on Varanasi to witness this historic contest.
