Madhu has broad forearms and a beautiful smile. Her long hair cascades beyond her waist . Today Madhu has tied her hair in a tight bun. Her eyes are shinning bright and her arms while covered in a khaki uniform are working overtime.

Madhu was born Madhusudan, but realized very early she didn’t identify as a man.

Today Madhu will start a new life as a Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM) operator

But Madhu has already moved mountains to find herself and blazed a path in the rockiest terrain of social mores.

Like a tree that grows to new heights after being replanted in better soil and water, Madhu knows this is the beginning of a journey that starts with respect — in the eyes of society and that of her extended family.

Madhu wants to reach for the stars, and she will start by moving the Earth

This article is inspired by Tata Steel’s decision to only hire Transgenders for the Heavy Earth Moving operator roles in India.