India Untold
An inspiring journey of perseverance
Vijaya Vasave, Maharashtra's first transgender forest guard, overcame numerous struggles and hardships to lead a life of dignity. Read her inspiring journey.
Vijaya Vasave now serves as a forest guard in the remote Akkalkuva taluka of Nandurbar district, walking the same paths she once feared.
She made history as the first person to receive a transgender certificate from the Maharashtra government. Born into a tribal farming family, Vijaya’s life was far from easy.
She endured harassment and mental torture in school and college because of her feminine nature, but her courage and determination helped her to persevere and move forward.
The turning point in her life came when Pune LGBTQ+ activist Bindumadhav Khire's lecture on sexuality helped Vijaya understand her identity.
In 2019, she began her gender transition, undergoing surgical and hormonal treatments. After graduation, Vijaya focused on preparing for government jobs.
She first applied for the police force and then for forest guard in 2023. She earned a post as forest guard. Now, locals seek her guidance, inspired by her journey.
The people of Nandurbar are amazed by Vijaya’s transformation. Her story inspires lakhs of transgender individuals.