Selection to Thai Pageant a Positive Message: Ma

CHENNAI: When Malaika (28), a transgender model, got the news that she is chosen to represent India at the International Queen Competition in Thailand, she said she felt like a phoenix rising from the ashes. The happy tiding is symbolic of a much larger issue - that the entire community of sexual minorities (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender - LGBT) has finally arrived.“It was a breathtaking moment for me. I was so happy and proud. This selection goes on to prove that I am here only because of my merit,” said Malaika at a media meet on Thursday.She added, “I hope this opportunity to represent India will help break down the negative image that most people have about the transgenders. I hope this sends a message that transgenders are capable, smart, beautiful and achievers. Given an opportunity, we will excel in life.”Malaika shot to limelight when she won the Miss Sahodaran 2007 title. She said, “When I won the contest, like every other beauty pageant winner, I had aspirations to do well in the modeling industry. But when I tried entering the industry after my first two shows, I met with huge resistance from co-female models. They refused to work with me saying that I am a TG. And the industry shunned me not because I am less hot or less confident.”The gracious lady remarked with a twinkle, “Actually, the real reason why the female models in Chennai did not want to work with me was because all the designers wanted to work with me. It made them feel jittery and less confident as women. This selection is a  proof to what I am.”Sunil Menon, co-founder of Sahodaran and an LGBT activist, said, “This goes on to prove that given opportunities and support from families, TGs and other sexual minorities can be real achievers. Malaika fortunately had the support and acceptance of her family.”The otherwise confident Malaika is weighed down by a worry as she gets ready for the pageant organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, which starts on October 30 and goes on till November 4. She sums up: ”I need sponsors. There are five rounds with different styles of clothes. I need to buy accessories for everything. I really hope some corporates will come forward to support.”