No Blushes tells the story of Renju Renjimar, the celebrated makeup artist and transgender activist. In her own voice, Renju traces her journey from a brick-kiln worker to a celebrity makeup artist, and from gender anxieties to self-assertion. She also speaks of love and heartbreak, of friendships lost and gained, and of her quest for independence. Above all, it is the story of Kerala’s transgender community and their ongoing struggle for rights and dignity.

Renju Renjimar is among India’s most sought-after celebrity makeup artists and a prominent transgender activist. Born to working-class parents and facing ostracisation at home and in society, she was unable to complete her college education. Through determination and skill, Renju built a successful career across India and the Middle East, establishing salons in major cities. She is also a leading member of Dhwayah, which works for the rights and wellbeing of trans persons in Kerala. After undergoing sex reassignment surgery, she fashioned her body and identity on her own terms. No Blushes traces the defining moments of her remarkable journey.

Sonya J. Nair is the Head of the Department of English at All Saints’ College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. She is the editor of samyuktapoetry.com.

Preface
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven