Hijra

Definition

Hijra refers to a recognized third gender in South Asia, particularly in India, encompassing transgender and non-binary individuals. Traditionally, hijras have played unique roles in society, often associated with blessings at births and marriages, reflecting their cultural significance. This term connects to the broader evidence of diverse gender identities and expressions found throughout ancient societies, showcasing how different cultures acknowledged and incorporated non-binary identities into their social fabric.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The hijra community has existed in India for centuries, with historical references dating back to ancient texts such as the Kama Sutra and the Mahabharata.
2. Hijras are often considered to be outside the traditional gender binary of male and female, allowing them to occupy a unique societal position.
3. In many Indian cultures, hijras are believed to possess special powers that can bless individuals during significant life events, such as childbirth or weddings.
4. The Indian legal system recognized hijras as a third gender in a landmark 2014 Supreme Court ruling, affirming their rights and identity.
5. Traditionally, hijras form close-knit communities, often led by a guru or leader who provides guidance and support to their members.

Review Questions

• What social roles do hijras traditionally play in Indian culture, and how do these roles challenge conventional understandings of gender?
  • Hijras play significant roles in Indian culture as performers at weddings and blessings at childbirth, which challenges conventional gender norms by highlighting their importance in significant life events. Their presence disrupts the binary understanding of gender by illustrating that identity can encompass more than just male or female. This unique social standing demonstrates the fluidity of gender roles in ancient societies.
• Discuss how historical texts like the Kama Sutra and Mahabharata contribute to our understanding of hijras in ancient Indian society.
  • Historical texts like the Kama Sutra and Mahabharata provide crucial insight into the existence and roles of hijras in ancient Indian society. These texts reference hijras not only as individuals with unique gender identities but also emphasize their participation in rituals and celebrations. This historical acknowledgment helps validate the long-standing presence of transgender and non-binary individuals within South Asian culture.
• Evaluate the impact of the 2014 Supreme Court ruling recognizing hijras as a third gender on contemporary Indian society and its understanding of gender diversity.
  • The 2014 Supreme Court ruling that recognized hijras as a third gender marked a significant turning point for contemporary Indian society by legitimizing their identity within the legal framework. This ruling has empowered hijras to advocate for their rights, leading to greater visibility and acceptance within broader society. It also reflects an evolving understanding of gender diversity, encouraging discussions about non-binary identities across various cultural contexts.

Related terms

Aravani: Aravani is a term used in Tamil Nadu, India, to describe transgender individuals who identify as male but embody feminine characteristics, often overlapping with the hijra community.

Two-Spirit: A term used by some Indigenous North American cultures to describe a person who embodies both masculine and feminine qualities, similar to the hijra's role in South Asian cultures.

Kinnar: Kinnar is another term used in various regions of India to refer to transgender individuals or hijras, emphasizing their distinct cultural identity and roles within society.