Dwelling in Displacement: The Architectural Uncanny and Transgender Exile in Irani’s The Parcel and Laxmi’s Red Lipstick: The Men in My Life

Abstract

Aim of the Study: This paper attempts to investigate the portrayal of the homes of transgenders in order to highlight the complex interplay between the societal dynamics and the transgenders’ identities in the selected Indian fiction, i.e., The Parcel by Anosh Irani and Red Lipstick: The Men in My Life by Laxmi Naryan Tripathi. By drawing upon Anthony Vidler, Crawford, Gozlan, and Freud's concept of the “uncanny”, this research highlights the frightening realities and effects of societal judgment and displacement experienced by transgenders in the Indian society.

Methodology: The current qualitative study employs Catherine Belsey’s model of “Textual Analysis” to analyze the selected fiction to trace the vulnerabilities of transgender bodies and the systemic inequality they face in securing safe housing in India.

Findings: The findings of this research highlight the discrimination faced by the transgender individuals in the Indian society and call for the reevaluation of legal and social norms for the recognition of transgender voices to foster more inclusivity.

Conclusion: So, through detailed textual analysis, this study not only foregrounds the living conditions of the transgenders but also attempts to promote equitable and inclusive discourses which may pave the way for greater acceptance and social recognition of the transgender individuals. Also, this research aims to emphasize that Indian society needs to develop awareness and empathy for the transgender individuals in order to establish equitable social structures.