Synopsis
Echoes of Exile follows two hijra women from different generations: one is an elder in the traditional hijra community of Bangladesh, and the other is a young closeted hijra girl targeted by cyber harassment. Though their experiences differ, both are forced into exile, rejected by their families and communities.
The film explores how digital harassment & online extremism impacts their personal lives and reveals the shared struggles of marginalized trans women in a changing world.
Director’s Profile
Lamea Tanjin Tanha (24) is a Bangladeshi feminist, social entrepreneur, and activist focusing on SOGIESC rights. In 2018, they founded TransEnd, a youth-led non-profit promoting hijra community’s rights through diverse campaigns. Their filmmaking journey began with a stop-motion video about intersex individuals, created using basic tools during the pandemic, which gained significant online traction.
Lamea faces challenges like digital authoritarianism and online harassment but remains committed to their cause. Their work has earned them numerous awards, including the Banglades Sustainability Excellence Award (2023) and the Diana Award (2021). They’re also affiliated with prestigious programs like IVLP and Ashoka Young Changemaker. Lamea envisions a world of compassion, empathy, and sustainability, taking incremental steps toward positive change.
Director’s Statement
Echoes of Exile is a story about two trans women from different walks of life, connected by shared struggles of exile and rejection. I wanted to highlight how both tradition and technology can harm those who are already vulnerable. This film sheds light on the silent battles faced by trans women in a world that doesn’t always protect them, especially in places where LGBTQ+ rights are fragile. My hope is to raise awareness of the harmful impact of digital harassment and the strength it takes to survive in such circumstances.
