Models from LGBTQIA+ community slay ramp in trans-designer’s collection

Five transgender models, one transwoman designer and a gala fashion show. Fashion designer Diyasha Bhattacharya presented a women’s summer collection with the help from the community. The show was held in a city restopub recently.

“Ever since I started my work, I wanted to involve LGBTQIA+ members. I have four workshops in

Baruipur

, Ajaynagar,

Bagnan

and Nanur and most of my tailors are from the community. It is not every day I get to celebrate what I make. But when I got a chance, I decided to bring in all my friends from the community. Model-turned-actress Aditri Chowdhury, who is a transwoman, was my showstopper and all the other models are transgenders too.

Diyasha, who started her journey in 2009, along with her partner Shaswata Lahiri, sister Soma Banerjee and her daughter Aripriya Basu, has always worked with the community. “All my creations have been gender neutral — either for women and transwomen or men and transgenders,” she said. The designer showcased lehengas, saris, anarkalis and other dresses.

Ruing about the taboo they still face, Diyasha said, “Even after the Supreme Court decriminalised Section 377 last year, the LGBTQIA+ community in India still grapples with social taboo and other obstacles. While several members of the community give in and live a life in the closet, I decided to use my creativity for the betterment of the community.”