Transgender Actress from Manipur to Represent India at Prestigious Beauty Pageant in Thailand

Bishesh Huirem, a 27-year-old transgender actress from Manipur is all set to represent India at the Miss International Queen contest to be held in Chonburi, Thailand on November 11, 2016.

By Tanaya Singh

September 15, 2016

Bishesh Huirem, a 27-year-old transgender actress from Manipur is all set to represent India at the Miss International Queen contest to be held in Chonburi, Thailand on November 11, 2016.

According to reports, Miss International Queen is one the most recognised beauty pageants for transgender women in the world. It was launched in the year 2004 and is held in Pattaya City, Thailand, every year.

Bishesh, who has a degree in fashion and apparel design from Bangalore University, will be one of the 30 contestants from 155 countries, selected for the event.

bishesh

Bishesh’s journey has been one of determination and courage to keep moving forward – breaking boundaries and defying taboos. She was only 14 when she participated in first Miss Transgender Manipur contest held in the year 2000. She then went on to win the contest continuously for five times. Today, she is one of Manipur’s most sought-after actresses. She has been a part of two films, and is a famous ‘mobile theatre’ performer. Mobile theatres are open-air theatre performances held in different parts of Northeastern states.

Bishesh also has several design awards in her name and she runs a bridal beauty salon.

bishes2

“As a child she was attracted toward girls’ clothes and her grandmother would bring such dresses for her. I beat her several times to get her to change her orientation. I now realise that was a mistake,” her mother, Khomdonleima, told The Hindu.

All pictures: Facebook

Bishesh told a local newspaper in Manipur that she is proud to represent India on an international platform, but is concerned about the discrimination that transgender people have to face in the country.

Visit Bishesh on Facebook, here.

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