Transgender model Anjali Lama breaks through India fashion barrier

A transgender model will walk the ramp at one of India’s premier fashion events next month for the first time, a sign of greater acceptance of a community that is ostracised, despite recent laws ensuring their protection and more opportunities.

Anjali Lama, who is from Nepal, first auditioned for the Lakmé Fashion Week last year but was rejected, she said. She will model for several leading designers at the show running from February 1-5 in Mumbai.

“It wasn’t easy for me in the early days when there was so much rejection and discrimination,” said Lama, 32. “Now I am getting an overwhelming response from the fashion industry after being selected, and other transgender people tell me they are proud of me.”

Born Nabin Waiba Tamang, Lama said she took the name Anjali, a common name in India and Nepal, after a transgender friend suggested it.

“My mother, to some extent, was more accepting but there really wasn’t much awareness then,” Lama said. “There is more awareness and acceptance now in Nepal, and that has helped more people like me to come out.”