Nagpur | January 16, 2026: With the aim of promoting dignity, equality, and inclusion for the transgender community, “SAMMAN – Voices, Rights & Realities of the Transgender Community” was successfully organised on January 16 at Sai Sabagruh, Shankar Nagar, Nagpur. The programme featured a powerful blend of cultural performances and an insightful panel discussion, drawing participation from educators, mental health professionals, social activists, and members of the transgender community.
The event was organised by Jhankar Mahila Mandal and Sarathi Trust, and co-organised by UWAN and LAD College for Women, creating a meaningful platform for dialogue, awareness, and advocacy.
Thought-Provoking Panel Moderated by Twinkle Thakur
The highlight of the programme was a compelling panel discussion moderated by Ms. Twinkle Thakur, a renowned corporate personality. With sensitivity and balance, she guided conversations on the lived realities of the transgender community, their rights and dignity, mental health challenges, access to education, and the urgent need for social inclusion. Her moderation ensured a respectful and engaging exchange of perspectives among panelists and the audience.
Dignitaries and Eminent Panelists
The programme was graced by Shri Vishnu Manohar, renowned gourmet chef, as the Chief Guest, while Smt. Abha Dwivedi, President of Jhankar Mahila Mandal, presided over the event. Smt. Tanuja Phale, Programme Officer, DAPCU, District Hospital, Nagpur, attended as the Guest of Honour.
The panel included Dr. Harsha Jharia (CAO, LAD College for Women), Dr. Pooja Pathak (Principal, LAD College for Women), Gayathri Vatsalya (Clinical Psychologist), Nikunj Joshi (CEO, Sarathi Trust), Vidhya Kamle, Mohini, Achal Verma, and Tanushri Giri, who shared professional insights, lived experiences, and actionable solutions.
Voices That Moved the Audience
Opening the discussion, Nikunj Joshi delivered a powerful message, stating that while transgenders once blessed society, today they seek society’s blessings. He highlighted rising violence, family rejection, and the need for concrete action beyond symbolic events.
A deeply emotional moment came when Mohini, sharing her personal journey, said, “If parents don’t support me, I don’t need a surname. My single name, Mohini, is enough.” Her words left the audience visibly moved.
Education, Infrastructure & Workplace Challenges
Emphasising education as the foundation of inclusion, Dr. Harsha Jharia stressed the need to inculcate inclusiveness from school level onwards. Dr. Pooja Pathak highlighted progressive policy steps, noting that Nagpur University has begun including transgender participation in admission forms and academic activities.
Raising critical concerns, Achal Verma pointed to the lack of transgender-friendly infrastructure such as washrooms and medical wards, along with poor implementation of the Transgender Act. Vidhya Kamle spoke about workplace harassment, bullying, and social isolation, underscoring the need for stronger legal protections and family support.
Cultural Performances Leave a Lasting Impact
Adding emotional depth to the programme, cultural performances by Mohini and artists of the Shiv Mudra Group artistically portrayed the struggles, pain, hope, and aspirations of the transgender community, reinforcing the message of humanity beyond gender identity.
From ‘SAMMAN’ to ‘SAMAVESH’
The programme concluded with a unanimous call to move from ‘SAMMAN’ (Respect) to ‘SAMAVESH’ (Inclusion) through sustained efforts in education, policy reform, infrastructure development, and a shift in societal mindset.
The event witnessed an overwhelming response from students, academicians, professionals, social organisations, and citizens. Smt. Upma Bisen, Secretary, Jhankar Mahila Mandal, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, panelists, volunteers, and participants for making the initiative a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and compassionate society.
