Objectification involves reducing a group of people to simplified and often stereotypical traits while simultaneously treating them as outsiders. This is a frequent occurrence in Pakistani media, where empowering narratives for transgender individuals are rare. More often than not, they are depicted either as victims or objects of ridicule.
For example, in the Pakistani drama "Mera Naam Yousuf Hai," a transgender character is portrayed as a victim of constant abuse and societal rejection, reflecting the harsh realities many transgender individuals face. However, the story arc reinforces the stereotype of transgender people as helpless and destined for tragedy, rather than presenting them as individuals with agency and potential. Similarly, the drama series "Mukhbir" features a transgender character as a sidekick providing comic relief through exaggerated behaviors and mannerisms, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and failing to recognize their dignity and worth.
Such portrayals are not limited to television dramas. In comedy shows, transgender characters are often used solely for comic relief. Popular Pakistani comedy programs frequently feature transgender individuals as flamboyant characters whose primary role is to elicit laughter through exaggerated mannerisms and crude jokes. This treatment reduces their identity to a punchline and fails to acknowledge their humanity.
In the comedy show "Bulbulay," a transgender character is used as a recurring joke, further marginalizing this already vulnerable community.
Newspapers also play a significant role in reinforcing these negative stereotypes. Pakistani newspapers frequently refer to transgender individuals using derogatory terms like "hijra" or "khusra." These terms are not only disrespectful but also perpetuate the idea that transgender individuals are deviant or abnormal. Headlines often sensationalize their involvement in begging or sex work, painting a one-dimensional and negative picture of their lives. Consider the following headlines from leading newspapers: "Hijras Caught in Prostitution Ring," "Khusras Begging at Traffic Signals," and "Transgender Involved in Theft." These headlines contribute to a narrative that links transgender individuals with deviance, ignoring the systemic discrimination and lack of opportunities that often force them into these situations.
The societal mindset reflected in media extends to political discourse as well. It is not uncommon to hear politicians use derogatory language to belittle their opponents by questioning their masculinity, implicitly comparing them to transgender individuals as a form of insult. This further instills the stigma and discrimination faced by the transgender community. For instance, during a political debate, a prominent politician derogatorily referred to an opponent as a "hijra," using the term as a slur to question his competence.
When transgender individuals strive to break out of these limiting stereotypes, they often face backlash.
For instance, when transgender activist Nayyab Ali announced her candidacy for a political position, the response from the media and public was mixed, with some headlines questioning her legitimacy and others expressing surprise that a transgender person could aspire to such roles. This reaction underscores the bias that exists, suggesting that transgender individuals do not belong in positions of power or influence.
Social media has emerged as a powerful tool in challenging and reshaping the narratives surrounding transgender individuals in Pakistan. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have provided a space for transgender activists and allies to share authentic stories, advocate for rights, and challenge harmful stereotypes perpetuated by traditional media. Transgender individuals themselves have used social media to amplify their voices, share personal experiences, and showcase their talents and achievements beyond stereotypical portrayals. Campaigns and hashtags advocating for transgender rights and visibility have gained traction, fostering greater understanding and empathy among the broader public. Despite challenges such as online harassment and censorship, social media continues to play a crucial role in promoting more inclusive and accurate representations of transgender individuals, paving the way for societal acceptance and respect.
In Pakistani media, the portrayal of transgender roles is done in a way which further ingrains existing stereotypes in the minds of viewers. Newspapers officially using terms like ‘khusra’ or ‘Hijra’ to this day, leads the slurs to be normalized where people use it as normal vocablury, not realizing that it is a derogatory term. Transgenders like Maya Zaman (first trans designer) and Sara Gill (first trans doctor) are able to break these stereotypes but there is still a long way to go in empowering transgenders in Pakistan. For example, the Pakistani movie ‘Joyland’ which featured transgender characters was initially banned all over Pakistan and still remains banned in Punjab.
Providing a blog on such a sensitive issue has been an eye-opener. In Pakistan, many dramas or shows reflect just the one-dimensional life of transgenders, but there are some awareness-related dramas; an example I have is of drama "Alif Allah Aur Insaan," which depicts the struggle of a transgender character, "Shammo," played by Imran Ashraf. It was widely appreciated due to its character sensitivity and depth into the life of transgender in Pakistan. The drama shows the interaction with other characters in the form of acceptance and rejection both and also highlights the internal conflicts of Shammo as he tries to find his own identity. I believe that such dramas can help in changing the perception of people regarding transgender.…