Art to demystify colours of rainbow

Founder of the decade old NGO Sahodari foundation, Kalki has roped in hundreds of transgenders from the city and given them an opportunity to lead their lives with dignity. As a child, Kalki herself used art to vent out her daily struggle of being accepted by society. It was paintings and a palate of colours which added some brightness to her mundane life. It is to give this ray of hope to others like her that she conceived ‘Wall of Kindness’.

She adds, “The main idea is to emphasise on giving a chance to the future generation by roping in the local community.

We want to create a bond that’ll show the society that there is much more to us beyond our gender/sexual identities, thereby forming a community that is neither transphobic nor homophobic, but just compassionate.” The artists, who are involved in the beautification process also get honorarium for their participation as a source of income. 

Kalki, who has won several accolades for her significant work in performing arts, divulges how she ropes in transwomen for the project.

“The opportunities are prioritised for those who have no regular income and are looking for alternatives. We also involve college students and local communities to join and volunteer with us,” she explains.

Krishnaveni, (65), a member of Sahodari, says, “I have never done anything like this in my 65 years of life. I am glad that we are able to bond and remove the taboo about our community.

I painted two schools and I am immensely satisfied with what I did.”

Kalki reveals that she is on a mission to transform public spaces into thought provoking works of art through murals and graffiti. “Though we are greatly appreciated for our efforts, there are times when it becomes difficult to procure materials, as we are a selffunded organisation. But, I do realise that change does not happen overnight. So, we will strive until we get what we deserve,” concludes Kalki.