Riz Ahmed praises Marvia Malik, Pakistan’s first transgender news anchor

Published on: March 30, 2018 5:40 PM

 

 

British-Pakistani actor Riz Ahmed, who visited Pakistan lately for Lahore Literature Festival, congratulated Marvia Malik, Pakistan’s first transgender news broadcaster for accomplishing her dream via an Instagram post.

 

 

Congratulations to Marvia Malik. In some ways Pakistan has been ahead of the curve in certain aspects of trans rights. In other ways it has lagged behind. Hoping we can all learn from each other in paving the way to greater inclusion.

A post shared by Riz Ahmed (@rizahmed) on Mar 28, 2018 at 5:55am PDT

The famous, ‘Nightcrawler’ star posted, “Congratulations to Marvia Malik. In some ways, Pakistan has been ahead of the curve in certain aspects of trans rights. In other ways, it has lagged behind. Hoping we can all learn from each other in paving the way to greater inclusion.”

During his visit to his homeland after 13 years (which he labels as ‘meeting an ex’) Riz has been observed as a transgender activist, since he has been speaking up about trans rights in Pakistan.

Emmy Award-winner previously posted on his Instagram account, “In recent times, Pakistan has recognised the ‘third gender’ on official government documents, cementing their place in the society. But despite this recognition, they are marginalised and often earn a living through dancing, sex work or a kind of spiritual begging, (it is believed their prayers and curses carry more weight, so it’s best not to anger them, and instead to seek their blessings)”

 

 

A transgender lady in Karachi, face bleeding fresh from a street-fight. The transgender community has been an established part of South Asian culture for hundreds of years. You see many many more transgender people walking around in Pakistan than in New York or London. In recent times Pakistan has even had a recognised ‘third gender’ on official government documents, cementing their place in society. Despite this recognition however, they are marginalised and often earn a living through dancing, sex work or a kind of spiritual begging (it is believed their prayers and curses carry more weight, so it’s best not to anger them, and instead to seek their blessings). Same sex relationships are very common in Pakistan and often not thought of as a sign of homosexuality. In many ways this is a non binary culture – in terms of gender, sexuality, and faith. Religiously observant transgender sex workers who live by exacting a spiritual tax, is a good example of this. Known as Khwaaja Sarai (or disparagingly and more commonly as ‘Hijra’) they trace their lineage at least as far back as being an important part of the Mughal royal court and administration. The community has an ancient custom of adopting newcomers into guru and disciple relationships. Financial and social rights and responsibilities flow both ways in an interdependent, although sometimes exploitative ‘family’ system.

A post shared by Riz Ahmed (@rizahmed) on Mar 6, 2018 at 4:18am PST

Marvia Malik, has been making headlines after her appearance on, Kohenoor, a private media channel, presenting a positive identity of the third gender and the addition of her community in the public sphere.

With that, she immediately became an inspiration and an idol for many especially her community members.