Transgender life in Pakistan – in pictures
Across conservative Pakistan, where Islamic extremists launch near-daily attacks and many Muslims follow a strict interpretation of their faith, trans people face the challenge of balancing two identities. Associated Press photographer Muhammed Muheisen met residents of Rawalpindi city, northern Punjab, to find out more
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Waseem Akram, 27By day, Akram sells mobile phone accessories but by night applies mascara and blusher to become Rani, a wedding party dancer
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Akram stands by the mobile shop where he works
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Akram applies makeup
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Akram dances during a private party
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Riasat Hussain, 19
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Arfeen Nasar, 49
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Tahir Abbas, 26
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Amjad Mahmoud, 44Amjad, who proudly identifies as trans, is reflected in a mirror at home. ‘The only thing I can’t do as a woman is conceive babies’
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Bakhtawar Ijaz, 43‘I am a very shy man. Eyes always follow me when I walk out of the apartment that I share with a few friends who share the same job as a dancer. Being with them is like being with a family. When I am surrounded by them, I feel safe, respected and empowered’
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Ijaz puts on a bra before going out
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Ijaz applies makeup at home
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Pictures of trans people are spread on the floor of an apartment shared by Bakhtawar Ijaz in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. All photographs: Muhammed Muheisen/AP
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