Transgender Hemangi contests against PM Modi; here's all you have to know

Mahamandaleshwar Hemangi Sakhi Ma has made headlines by entering the political arena as she contests against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the Varanasi constituency in the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

Representing the Uttar Pradesh chapter of Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha (ABHM), Sakhi Ma’s candidacy marks a significant moment for transgender individuals in Indian politics. ABHM, a Hindu right-wing outfit, is set to contest 20 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, including Varanasi, where polling is scheduled for June 1.

Varanasi, a stronghold of Prime Minister Modi, witnessed his victory with a significant vote share of 63% in the 2019 elections. However, the opposition, including the Congress and the Samajwadi Party, is determined to challenge his dominance, with Congress fielding Ajai Rai as their candidate.

Sakhi Ma’s journey is as remarkable as her candidacy. Born in Baroda, Gujarat, she moved to Mumbai where she pursued her education and later became involved in the entertainment industry. However, it was her spiritual journey that defined 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 dedication to spreading spiritual teachings led her to perform Bhagavad Katha, Ram Katha, and Devi Bhagvat Katha across various platforms worldwide, showcasing her talent and breaking 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 conferred the title of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar by the Adya Shankar Kailash Peeth, Uttar Godavari dham.