It's Not My Choice (Eina Khankhiba Natte)
An Impactful Manipuri Film On Transgender Visibility.

Sangita Atom *

Priyakanta Laishram films are a genre in themselves and this short film It's Not My Choice is the final say and the best in the league Priyakanta is there to direct. The film is a complete package in itself. It addresses a sensitive subject in a very engaging manner.

A project like this comes full circle with the clear passion behind it. Definitely, a step towards more progressive Manipuri queer cinema. The Priyakanta Laishram directorial stars Bishesh Huirem, Ithoi Oinam and Edhou in the lead roles.

It's Not My Choice by Priyakanta Laishram perfectly and successfully portrays a transgender character "Sanathoi" (Bishesh Huirem) which would most certainly receive acceptance through the cis-lens. As a viewer, I can’t help but feel elated at this beautiful initiative that intends to create visibility for transgender. This short and sweet story of acceptance is something I wish was there when I was growing up.

The film is set in Manipur. Sanathoi (Bishesh Huirem), a transgender is barred from going to school, is even seen as a curse and an object of ridicule by her/their family and the society around her/them.

She/They encounters another major trans-phobic incident. Her/Their friend Ayeengbi (Ithoi Oinam) encourages Sanathoi to fight for her/their rights and strongly face anything that comes in the way. Will Sanathoi stand strong for herself/them-self? Watch this 14 minutes short film on YouTube.

In a world where trans folks are hardly given a space to claim, their visibility is almost always erased or ridiculed. The film is definitely a positive representation of queer trans people and children and deserves applause.

The film is beautifully visualized and steadfastly interesting. What Priyakanta Laishram has crafted is a work of intelligence and passionate heart. The movie is full of extraordinary acting. All the principal characters have their own different personalities evidenced by stunning performances. Lead actor Bishesh Huirem's performance is satisfactory.

But it is not only the actors that stands out in the film, the dialogues are smart and striking. It has many other significant elements, but the plot, screenplay, acting and dialogues are what make this LGBTQIA+ themed film worth watching!

The writer and director of the film, Priyakanta Laishram said - "The title itself i.e It's Not My Choice says that it is not by choice that homosexual people are homosexuals. The general public thinks that homosexuality is a genetic defect or it is because of wrong upbringing and socialization.

They have that wrong concept in their mind that someone's sexual preference or sexuality can easily be changed through proper medication or yoga. I am saying that being gay or trans is a part of normal range of human sexuality. It's not a mutation, but rather very much like the genetic regions that determine the color of your hair."