From Hostility to Acceptance: Trans Authors Find Their Voice at Chennai Book Fair
Four years back, trans activist Grace Banu faced a heartbreaking scene at the Chennai book fair. Unruly neighbors tore down her posters and knocked over banners at her stall. The incident moved her to tears. It was a rough and discouraging start.
A Remarkable Transformation in Just Four Years
Now, at the 49th edition of the fair this year, the story is completely different. Her publishing platform has secured not one, but two stalls. They are showcasing over 300 books and more than 50 distinct titles. Most importantly, there has been zero interference or hostility this time.
The books themselves tell powerful stories. Most comprise short stories based on real-life incidents. They capture the profound struggles of transformation and the stigma faced by people in the LGBTQIA+ community. Some titles feature poetry anthologies. These works gently nudge young readers to think critically and steer clear of harmful propaganda.
Readers and Organizers Celebrate the Change
Sahana M, a resident of Besant Nagar, shared her thoughts on the importance of these narratives. "Engaging with stories of transpersons gives a different perspective," she said. "Most of them are lived experiences, which makes you think about what they went through and how it played a role. It also helps us understand what we, as citizens, need to do."
The organizers, the Booksellers and Publishers Association of South India (BAPASI), confirm the positive shift. They report an encouraging response to books written by transpersons. Last year alone, sales from these authors contributed a significant 3 lakh rupees.
R S Shanmugam, President of BAPASI, highlighted the progress. "Although we don't reserve any special slots, trans authors really struggled to open a stall just three years ago," he noted. "Now, almost all stalls are selling books published by trans authors. It is a significant and welcome improvement."
A Platform for Launch and Connection
The fair has become more than just a sales point. It is now a launchpad. Transpersons are actively using the platform to introduce their new books to the world.
Akshaya, a trans writer, is one such author. She is set to launch her book, ‘Kovilpatti to Chennai’, at this year's event. "It's a good start for writers," she said with optimism. "We also get to connect with authors across the state and exchange ideas. It feels like a community."
The journey from tears of frustration to tears of joy marks a clear evolution. The Chennai book fair is slowly transforming into a more inclusive and representative space for all storytellers.
