Saisha Shinde (Swapnil Shinde) Height, Age, Boyfriend, Family, Biography & More

Some Lesser Known Facts About Saisha Shinde

• Saisha Shinde, an Indian fashion designer, has gained fame for being a pioneer as the first transgender fashion designer in India.

• Saisha Shinde, formerly known as Swapnil Shinde, was born biologically male but displayed feminine characteristics from an early age. Unfortunately, her classmates took advantage of this and subjected her to relentless bullying. In an interview, she bravely spoke about this difficult period in her life. She revealed that during her school years, she had to endure constant teasing from her peers, who would mockingly say “aye, baila.” Their relentless bullying targeted her shyness and feminine features, leaving her feeling isolated and distressed. To find solace, she sought refuge in the church situated on the school grounds. Often, she would wait alone in a corner until everyone had left for the day. Reflecting on this challenging time, she made a conscious decision to adopt an exaggeratedly masculine behavior and appearance. This was during the 90s, a time when gay men were often subjected to stereotypes and marginalized. Alongside her powerful words, a vintage photograph showcasing Saisha Shinde accompanied the interview.

• In her 20s, she began to feel attracted to men. At first, she believed she was gay, but after undergoing therapy with doctors, she discovered that she was actually a trans woman. During an interview, Saisha opened up about her struggle with gender dysphoria, which is the distress one feels when their gender identity doesn’t match their physical appearance. She shared that coming from a privileged and financially stable family as a designer, she found it easy to ignore the nagging feeling that something was wrong. Eventually, she realized that she needed to prioritize her own happiness. In secret, she would dress up in makeup, heels, and feminine clothing behind closed doors, without her friends knowing. She felt like she was disguising herself as a man, wearing rugged boots and stubble, instead of conforming to traditional gender norms. She also mentioned experiencing anxiety attacks during this period, for which she was prescribed medication. Initially hesitant to take the medication, she found that her panic attacks worsened when she considered not taking it. However, once she committed to continuing with the medication, her panic attacks subsided, and she finally found inner peace. As a result of the medication, her physical appearance started to change, and she noticed differences in her body, facial features, and hair growth. Despite warnings of potential side effects, she personally did not experience any mood swings, vomiting, or headaches. She discussed ways to navigate this stage and mentioned that it has been a year since she began her transition. However, she still has moments of strong gender dysphoria, even when she puts effort into presenting herself as a woman with makeup and styled hair. There are times when people mistake her for a man, though she understands that it is unintentional and respectful. On those days, dysphoria deeply affects her. To cope with these feelings, she relies on therapy and the support of her amazing family and friends. Connecting with other transgender women who share their experiences also helps her feel less alone and gives her the strength to face these challenges.

• After receiving confirmation from doctors that she was a transgender woman, she made the decision to inform her parents. Initially, she was hesitant to discuss it with them, but when they found out, they reacted in a very accepting manner. During an interview, Saisha expressed the difficulty she faced in finding the right words in Marathi to convey her emotions and identity. Fortunately, her father, who has always been incredibly open-minded, has been a constant source of support for her. He has been there for her since childhood, buying her dolls and supporting her fashion career. When she decided to undergo a gender transition, he not only embraced her decision but also actively helped her choose the doctors she would consult. The first time her mother saw her dressed as a woman, she didn’t recognize her at first. However, her mother played a significant role in assisting her in selecting a new name, which happened to be the same name as her niece, Saisha. Currently, they bond over sharing hairstyling and makeup tips.

• In 2020, she made the decision to fully transform her body to align with her female identity, opting for gender reassignment surgery. The process began with sessions with psychiatrists Dr. Neha Shah and Dr. Armaan Pandey, followed by hormone replacement therapy administered by endocrinologist Dr. Dheeraj Kapoor at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. Additionally, she underwent a hair treatment at Metamorphosis Clinic and received voice modulation training, along with a few surgical procedures. During an interview, she expressed her pride in embracing her identity as a woman, despite her genetic physiology not conforming to societal stereotypes. She confidently stated her intention to wear makeup and heels without any fear or hesitation. Before and after pictures showcasing Saisha Shinde’s transformation are available.

• Initially, she embarked on her professional journey at the Kimaya Fashion Store in Mumbai as a sales boy. However, her exceptional skills and dedication led to her subsequent promotion as a visual merchandiser within the same establishment.

• In 2007, she established her fashion brand ‘Swapnil Shinde’. Throughout her career, she has crafted fashionable garments for renowned Bollywood actresses such as Kareena Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, and Aditi Rao Hydari.

• Various top-notch fashion shows have featured the collection of her fashion label.

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• Her experience as a fashion designer includes working on notable Hindi films such as ‘Fashion’ (2008), ‘Guzaarish’ (2010), and ‘Laxmii’ (2020).

• In 2015, Saisha was a contestant on the American TV show ‘Project Runway Season 14’.

• Saisha Shinde gained massive popularity when her gown was worn by Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu, the winner of Miss Universe 2021, in the pageant’s final round. In an interview, Saisha explained that there are specific expectations for Miss India at international pageants. The gown must exude elegance and beauty, appearing delicate and feminine, while also conveying strength and power. Interestingly, these qualities align with Saisha’s personal transformation as she transitioned into a woman, which has become a defining feature of her brand.<br><br>The gown was created using intricate embroidery, gemstones, and sequins. To align with Harnaaz’s commitment to sustainability, Saisha utilized embroidery materials already available in her studio. Moreover, as Harnaaz hails from Punjab, Saisha incorporated motifs inspired by the traditional art of phulkari. The geometric patterns, synonymous with phulkari designs, were given a modern twist to enhance the overall ensemble. Ultimately, it was Saisha Shinde who designed the stunning gown worn by Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu.

• featured Saisha as a contestant on the popular digital reality show, with renowned Indian actress Kangana Ranaut as the host.

• Saisha Shinde, a deeply spiritual individual, expressed her profound belief in Lord Ganesha during an interview, even holding a figurine of the deity as she shared her thoughts.

• Saisha Shinde, a passionate cat lover, cherishes her pet cats dearly. In 2020, she commemorated her late pet cat Mimi Shinde by posting a heartfelt Instagram update featuring a picture of her. Recently, Saisha returned to Instagram to share an endearing update about her beloved feline companions.

• During an interview, while discussing the process of choosing her name after undergoing transgender treatment, she expressed that after completing the treatment, she initially wished to keep the name Mastani. However, her family strongly objected to this choice, leading her to ultimately decide on the name Saisha. Saisha represents a purposeful existence and holds deep significance for her, as she strives to live a profoundly meaningful life. The name selection process posed challenges, as there were four options to consider. Interestingly, the name she personally preferred, Mastani, was met with disapproval from others. Nevertheless, she embraced the name Saisha as it truly encompasses her identity.

• Before her transition as a woman, Swapnil Shinde (formerly known as Saisha Shinde) used to smoke cigarettes.