ITF Special Performer Jaanu Karnataka

India’s Talent Fight is an Indian biographical reality television series that follows the extraordinary life and artistic journey of Jaanu, India’s first transgender ventriloquist. The show documents her personal struggles, resilience, and rise as a multi-talented performer from a remote village in Raichur, Karnataka, to a celebrated figure in the Indian art and performance community.
Premise
The series chronicles the early life of Jaanu, a transgender artist who was born in a conservative village in Raichur. From a young age, she faced social stigma, discrimination, and emotional trauma due to hormonal imbalance and gender identity issues. Despite facing systemic challenges, especially during her adolescence, Jaanu displayed an early passion for art, crafts, modeling, and acting.
At the age of 17, Jaanu moved to Bangalore in pursuit of a new beginning. With no financial support or stable shelter, she began working as a henna artist at weddings and functions, using her artistic skills to survive and fund her education. Over time, she self-trained in several forms of traditional performing arts, including:
Jogathi Aata
Dollu Kunitha
Pooja Kunitha
Ventriloquism
Jaanu’s venture into ventriloquism—a rare art form in India—distinguished her as the country’s first transgender ventriloquist.
Themes
The show highlights:
The challenges faced by transgender individuals in rural India.
Artistic perseverance and self-expression.
The role of traditional art forms in identity and empowerment.
Gender inclusivity in modern Indian media.
Impact
India’s Talent Fight has been praised for its honest portrayal of trans identity, cultural heritage, and grassroots artistry. Jaanu’s story has inspired many viewers across India, especially LGBTQ+ youth, by showcasing a narrative of hope, resilience, and transformation through art.