Bangladesh (Commonwealth Union)_ Bangladesh has taken a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and acceptance by introducing a revolutionary initiative that welcomes the Muslim transgender hijra community into the sacred space of a newly constructed mosque. Located in Mymensingh, north of Dhaka, this South Asian nation has erected the first mosque specifically designed for transgender individuals, known as the Dakshin Char Kalibari Masjid. This momentous occasion marks the establishment of the first place of worship for the third gender in Bangladesh, signifying a noteworthy milestone for the local transgender community.
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Over the years, members of the hijra community have faced persistent discrimination and societal exclusion. This initiative arose following the expulsion of transgender individuals from a local Islamic congregation. However, the Bangladeshi government generously donated land, and the community funded the mosque through collective donations. Additionally, the mosque also has a graveyard to bury transgender individuals owing to the previous refusal of a local cemetery. Imam Abdul Motaleb, 65, highlighted the contradiction between the discrimination faced by transgender people and the principles of Islam, saying that they are like all other people created by Allah. He also underscored the universality of humanity, stressing that irrespective of gender identity, all human beings have the right to pray to God as ordered by Allah through the Holy Quran.
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The mosque, though it is a modest single-room shed structure, marks a groundbreaking institution in Bangladesh, providing transgender individuals with a space to pray freely. According to Mufti Abdur Rahman Azad, who manages a charity for the community, the mosque was the first of its kind in the south asian nation. Sonia, 42, lauded the mosque, recalling her childhood love for reciting the Holy Quran and her expulsion from mosques after becoming a transgender. However, following the launch of this mosque, she expressed delight, declaring, “Now, this is our mosque. Now, no one can say no.”
In 2013, the Bangladeshi government officially accepted the third gender; however, transgender individuals still continue to encounter societal challenges. For instance, they encounter restrictions in property ownership, marriage rights, employment discrimination, education as well as being disproportionately exposed to violence and poverty. Additionally, the extremist groups have aggressively opposed the inclusion of the third gender in educational materials.
The fight for recognition and acceptance has always remained an ongoing battle for hijras in Bangladesh. In spite of the advancements in legal and political spheres, systemic challenges still persist. However, the opening of this special mosque signifies a symbolic stride towards breaking barriers and promoting inclusivity. In a world where disputes and divisions are common, Bangladesh’s breakthrough initiative inspires other countries as well as serves as a poignant reminder of the revolutionary power of compassion and acceptance.
