Trans Man Blends Art and Activism On Stage

Sarvagya Soni, a 26-year-old artist, is using his stage performances to advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. His show, a hybrid of storytelling, stand-up, poetry, and theatre, delves into his personal journey as a trans man growing up in a tier-three city. Soni shares his experiences navigating his identity, family reactions, and building a life on his own terms. He emphasizes that his performance is not just about his gender identity but also about his broader existence as an artist.

Initially conceived as entertainment, Soni's work has become a political statement. Disappointment with the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, and the marginalization of stories have fueled his advocacy. He believes art is inherently political and aims to create vital references for lives often omitted from public discourse. Soni has observed a positive shift in audience perception, with diverse age groups attending his shows in Delhi, indicating a growing openness to discussing the real issues faced by the trans community.