Renowned LGBTQIA+ activist and former Bigg Boss contestant Sushant Divgikar announced the start of a medical transition and a name change to Rani Sushant Divgikar. She has been on Hormone Replacement Therapy for five months and aims to complete the transition by 2027.

Key Takeaways

  • Sushant has officially begun medical transition
  • Will adopt the name 'Rani Sushant Divgikar'
  • Targets full transition completion by 2027

Sushant Divgikar, known for their presence on Bigg Boss and as a leading voice for the LGBTQIA+ community, disclosed today in New Delhi the most significant decision of their life. She revealed that she has started medical transition and has been on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for the past five months.

Following the transition, she will go by the new name Rani Sushant Divgikar. “My parents named me Sushant, so it will always remain part of my identity. ‘Rani’ was given to me lovingly by people, so I want to keep both names together,” she explained.

The decision was not rushed. Sushant said she consulted doctors and mental‑health specialists for months, and only after unanimous medical approval did she commence HRT. Five months later, she reports that both her health and emotional well‑being have improved markedly.

Originally, she intended to start the transition in 2023, but a film role in “Thank You for Coming” required a masculine appearance, delaying the process. Additionally, liver and blood test irregularities, anemia, and iron deficiency forced a temporary pause.

She emphasizes that the journey continues, with a target to fully complete the transition by 2027. Addressing concerns about vocal changes, Sushant clarified that estrogen does not alter the voice; testosterone does in male‑to‑female transitions, but her voice will remain unchanged.

Historical Background

Visibility of transgender individuals in Indian cinema has gradually risen over the past decade. Pioneers like Nikita Choudhary, Fatima Banerjee, and now Sushant have helped shift public perception, fostering greater acceptance and awareness of gender diversity.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that a high‑profile figure like Sushant publicly sharing their transition serves as a powerful social signal for the transgender community, breaking stereotypes and encouraging broader societal support and healthcare accessibility.

Transition is a deeply personal journey, but sharing it publicly empowers countless others to live authentically.
Did You Know?: India’s first transgender actress, Nikita Choudhary, starred in the 2018 hit film “Superhit,” paving the way for future representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did Sushant start HRT?
A: Five months ago.

Q: What is her ultimate goal?
A: To complete the full transition by 2027.