Born in Visakhapatnam and raised across India thanks to his father's job transfers, Prithvi (he/him) reflects on his upbringing, where each city left its mark on his identity. "Moving around exposed me to diverse cultures and perspectives," Prithvi notes, "which played a crucial role in shaping my understanding of myself."

At the Godrej DEI Lab, he works as a Research and Media Catalyst. For this story, he's thinking aloud about professional accomplishments, self-acceptance, and societal navigation.

The path to realising his trans identity was gradual and transformative. "There wasn't one particular moment," Prithvi shares. "It was a journey of self-discovery, of slowly aligning my inner truth with my outward expression." The journey included pivotal experiences in college life in Mumbai and progressive work environments of newsrooms such as Mid-Day and Youth Ki Awaaz. "These spaces helped me accept myself," he reflects, "and understand that being true to myself was essential."

Coming out to friends and family was a significant milestone. "Their acceptance and understanding were crucial," Prithvi emphasises. "It affirmed that I could be who I am authentically, even if it meant presenting differently." His involvement in creating the film Lailaa Manju was another empowering chapter, where collaboration and storytelling became a vehicle for personal and community expression. He co-wrote the film with his friend Kamya N, and produced the film on a women- and queer-led set. The film released in 2023, and has played to packed festival audiences around India, including a very special screening at Godrej One in June 2024, as part of pride celebrations.

"One of the misconceptions is that it's a phase or that we're confused," he says about his transness. "Most of us undergo a long internal process before coming out, so it's not a decision made lightly." He dispels the transphobic notions of seeking attention or special treatment. "For me, it's about fitting in as who I truly am, not standing out," he asserts. "The trans journey is about alignment and acceptance, not seeking privilege."

His story at Godrej DEI Lab continues to inspire his colleagues, myself included, to advocate for a world where identity is embraced and diversity celebrated. "I've come a long way," he concludes, "from navigating doubts to being comfortable in my own skin, both personally and professionally." At the Lab, he says, "It's about creating spaces where everyone feels valued; where identity is not a barrier but a celebration."

Text and image by Rolie Breja