Whenever heavy rain, floods, or other natural calamities strike, the transgender community in Telangana, India, performs a distinctive ritual seeking protection for people’s lives and property.
During these times, community members devote themselves to worship, praying for safety and well-being. They observe a strict 24-hour fast without even drinking water, dedicating the entire night to their special ritual.
They believe this worship helps shield the public from harm, and many locals view their efforts as a meaningful and admirable act.
Their ritual does not involve idol worship; instead, they believe the divine presence lives within them. One member embodies Goddess Matangi, dressed in a green saree and adorned with a garland. The ceremony concludes with milk carried in a silver vessel and offered to the Godavari River.