Hijra is a term that refers to individuals who identify as a member of the gender minority community in South Asia. The term is most often used to refer to people who were assigned male at birth, but identify and live as women.
Hijras are not born as hijras, rather they are born into a biological sex that may not match their gender identity and expression. As a result, hijras go through a social transformation process or a “change of gender” as they become accepted as members of the hijra community.
This process involves an individual identifying as a hijra and being accepted into the hijra community by other members. This can involve a hijra taking on a new name, adopting a new gender identity and expression, and undergoing rituals and ceremonies to signify their new identity.
Hijras typically come from all sorts of religious, cultural, and economic backgrounds. However, all hijras are seen as a marginalized community in South Asia, and many face discrimination from family, society, and the law.
Hijras have a rich cultural history with a long-standing tradition and community. As a result, they are seen as providing a unique and important contribution to South Asian culture, especially in the area of gender identity and expression.
What are hijras biologically?
Hijras are an “umbrella term” used to refer to an estimated one million people in South Asia who identify as neither male nor female. Hijras are a cultural group, meaning that their biological sex doesn’t always reflect the gender they identify as.
According to research, the majority of hijras have male anatomy, but some have female or intersex characteristics. Typically, hijras were considered a “third gender,” with their own special characteristics and roles within their communities.
It is generally accepted that their social identity is determined at birth, even if they don’t take on the identity of a hijra until much later in life.
Hijras have a long and complex cultural history that is rooted in the traditions of India and neighboring countries. Historically, hijras were associated with the gods and celebrated for their spiritual roles in the community.
Earlier in history, hijras were respected figures in society, but their roles and traditions were later heavily suppressed. Although attitudes towards hijras have become increasingly more positive in recent years, they still face widespread discrimination, particularly in areas such as education and employment.
Are hijras asexual?
The answer to this question is not simple. Hijras, an Indian cultural category of people who identify as neither male nor female, exist outside of traditional understandings of gender and sexuality. As such, it is difficult to provide a straightforward answer of whether hijras are asexual or not.
In general, asexuality is defined as the lack of sexual attraction or desire for sexual intimacy to anyone. Individuals who identify as asexual may not experience sexual attraction and may be celibate or abstain from sex for various reasons.
Some asexual people do enter into romantic relationships and may still have an active sex life. It is important to note that asexuality is one type of sexual orientation, and it is neither a mental illness nor a form of abstinence or celibacy.
For hijras, the exact meaning and understanding of asexuality—and its implications on their gender identity and sexual orientation—will vary depending on each individual. It is important to create an environment that is accepting of hijras, and to provide them with the tools to express their identity and orientation in ways that make them feel safe and empowered.
Ultimately, it is up to each hijra to decide if they identify as asexual.
How is Kinner different from normal human?
Kinner are a unique class of humans. They have distinct physical characteristics which distinguish them from other humans. For example, Kinner typically have strawberry blonde hair, blue eyes and a sun-kissed complexion.
Unlike other humans, Kinner have an ethereal quality to their looks and demeanor, including a natural grace and charisma.
Kinner are incredibly hardworkers and are known to be quite successful. They are incredibly independent and take initiative on nearly everything they do. With a strong intuition and great problem solving skills, Kinner are often successful in their pursuits.
Kinner also have an affinity for nature, and connect strongly with their surroundings. They have enhanced senses, which makes them feel more alive when they’re immersed in nature. It also allows them to feel connected with their environment, creating a spiritual bond.
Kinner also have unique abilities and powers, giving them a close connection to the supernatural. They have the ability to call upon their spiritual guides and allies to find guidance in their lives and tap into their greater power.
In short, Kinner are different from other humans in many ways, from their physical characteristics to their connection to the supernatural. They are hardworking and ambitious, with a deep connection to the natural world.
Who do hijras worship?
Hijras, a traditional third gender in South Asia, can practice various religious beliefs, though their faith is often a combination of various spiritual and religious practices. Hinduism is the main religion of hijras.
They honor the goddess Bahuchara Mata, a deity specifically associated with them, as well as other female deities like Kali and Durga. In some cases, hijras may even worship intersex deities.
Beyond Hinduism, hijras may also practice Buddhism, Islam, Jainism, and even Christianity, depending on where they live and their natural inclinations. They may mix or syncretize spiritual beliefs and practices, as many other marginalized and minority communities do, as a way to cope with social exclusion and oppression.
For example, some hijras live in hijra communities or gharanas, where they form their own religious rituals and beliefs. Since they cannot marry, they often perform alternative weddings to divine and goddesses in order to make the relationship official.
Most importantly, the community is based on joint responsibility and take care of each other. Others may also follow local saints and spiritual leaders who are more accepting of hijras.
Ultimately, the religious practices of hijras are often determined by the region and community in which they live. As such, a variety of faiths may be practiced amongst hijras.
How are hijras cremated?
Hijras, or members of a traditional community in South Asia, are typically cremated with specific Hindu funeral rites. The first step of the funeral is often a pre-cremation ritual, in which family members and other community members perform certain prayers and ceremonies to honor the deceased.
If the deceased was a hijra, the pre-cremation ritual can involve the application of a special type of sandalwood paste to the body, called chandan. A yagna, or fire ritual, is then often performed with ghee (clarified butter), flowers, and incense, which carries the deceased’s soul to the afterlife.
Once the pre-cremation rituals are complete, the body is then taken to the cremation grounds, where it is placed atop a traditional pyre and set alight by the chief mourner of the family. After the body is reduced to ashes, the ashes are then sprinkled into a nearby body of water and the mourning period ends.
Why do eunuchs clap?
Eunuchs typically clap as a means of expressing their joy and appreciation for a special occasion or celebration. Historically, eunuchs had a largely ceremonial role within certain cultures and were expected to serve in a variety of ways, including singing and dancing.
Clapping, often in pairs, was just one way they could actively participate in the festivities they were required to attend.
In modern times, the tradition of eunuchs clapping has remained and has even spread to other cultures. It is often seen during weddings, religious ceremonies, and performances, not just for expressing joy, but also for building excitement and increasing the energy in the environment.
Clapping is also a way for eunuchs to show solidarity. By coming together to celebrate joyous events, eunuchs can help strengthen their community. It is a way of communicating that they are present, participating, and showing appreciation for each other.
How many sexes are there?
There is still much debate about how many sexes there are; some suggest that there are two sexes (male and female) and others suggest that there are more than two. From a biological perspective, sex is typically divided into two categories, male and female, based on the genitalia a person is born with.
However, this does not always reflect the individual’s gender identity, as gender does not always correspond to biological sex. In addition, there are various ways in which people may be born with chromosomal or hormonal characteristics that don’t fit within the traditional categories of male and female.
For example, intersex individuals may be born with physical characteristics that are a combination of the two sexes or cannot be classified as either male or female. Some people may identify as something other than male or female, such as gender non-binary.
In recognizing these realities, some suggest that there are more than two sexes, although it is ultimately up to the individual to define their own sex/gender identity.
How do you become a hijra?
Becoming a hijra is a complex process, as it involves a complex network of relationships within the hijra community. It is considered a traditional practice that has been handed down through generations.
To become a hijra, an individual must be accepted into the hijra community, which is an intimate, interlinked network. This requires being recognized by one or more hijra mentor figures known as guru, submitting to initiation rites, and being accepted by the community.
It is not uncommon for hijras to leave their homes and join another hijra community, relying on its members for the support they need to survive. During the kinning process, the individual submits their full name, natal village or town, parent’s name, and other personal information to their guru.
The guru then registers the individual in the Sunnat e-Hijra (SEH), an online registration system that officially recognizes hijra individuals and identifies hijra communities.
In addition to being accepted by the community and submitting to initiation rites, hijras must maintain a highly regulated lifestyle that reflects their commitment to the religious practice of non-heteronormative gender expression.
This includes consulting with religious leaders, attending hijra ceremonies, practicing modesty, abstaining from sex, and taking part in hijra festivals. Being a part of the hijra community also involves participating in activities such as drag performances, advocacy, and political demonstrations.
By adhering to these requirements and maintaining a lifestyle that reflects the culture, hijras can become fully accepted members of the hijra community.
What is the gender of Kinner?
Kinner is an Indian third-gender identity, which is not typically linked to any particular gender. It is often used to refer to individuals who may or may not identify with a binary gender system, but instead identify with a gender spectrum.
Historically, the Kinner were recognized as a third-gender in India and were given the same rights and respect as both men and women. Kinner are often treated differently in the modern day, with discrimination and marginalization present in many places.
It is important to note that there is no single definitive answer for the gender of Kinner as each individual may identify differently.
What are hijras known for?
Hijras, often referred to as transgender individuals or third gender people, are a largely marginalized and isolated group of people in South Asia who have a unique gender identity distinct from male or female.
This group has been an integral part of South Asian history for many centuries, yet their struggles for recognition and acceptance in mainstream society have been largely overlooked and misunderstood.
Hijras are known for performing important rites of passage and ceremonies in some parts of South Asia, such as weddings and births. They are also known for their distinctive style of clothing and for expressing themselves through dance, music and singing in festivals.
As with all minority communities, hijras also face tremendous discrimination, marginalization and exclusion in the cultural, social and financial arenas. In India and Nepal, hijras are recognized as a ‘third gender’ and permitted to vote and receive national identification cards, though they still face tremendous discrimination in many aspects of daily life.
The experiences of hijras in South Asia vary greatly, with some having not had any contact with the community, while others growing up in large, tight-knit communities of hijras who accept and support one another.
Hijras also often face issues accessing medical and mental health services, due to pervasive stigma, discrimination, and a lack of knowledge about the Third Gender community. However, in recent years there have been greater efforts to raise awareness about transgender identities and to fight for their rights.
What are the symptoms of third gender?
Third gender individuals, or people who identify as neither fully male or female, can have a variety of experiences and expressing their gender. These can be physical and emotional symptoms or traits that may or may not be shared by other individuals with similar gender identities.
Physically, some may experience feeling in between the traditional male and female genders, or feeling different parts of their body being “off” or disconnected in some way. They may not feel a sense of belonging when placed in traditional gender roles or assigned activities, and they may prefer to dress androgynously, wear clothing not traditionally associated with either gender, or choose to not wear clothing at all.
Emotionally, they may experience a sense of alienation, confusion, or discomfort with the expectations of their assigned gender. They may also feel an inner conflict in terms of having to balance their outward presentation of gender and their internal identity, and often may feel that the words available to describe their gender do not accurately express how they truly feel.
Overall, there is no one-size-fits-all experience for third gender individuals. Some may express their gender in subtle ways, while others may express it in more overt ways, and some may feel as if their gender shifts from time to time.
As with any gender identity, it is highly individual and should be respected as such.
How do you know if your child is confused of gender?
It can be difficult to know if a child is confused about their gender, as it is a very personal and sensitive issue. The best way to approach this topic is to focus on observing how your child behaves and treats themselves, rather than on their gender identity.
It is important to give them space and support to be able to express themselves and share their feelings. Although there are no concrete signs to tell whether a child is confused about their gender, here are some things to look out for that may indicate they are:
-Talking or expressing themselves in ways that don’t align with the gender they were assigned at birth.
-They complain about how they look with regards to how other people think they should look based on gender roles.
– They express that they don’t feel happy or comfortable in the gender role assigned to them.
– They seem uncomfortable or feel ashamed when it comes to aspects of their body that are usually associated with gender.
– They express a strong affinity towards toys or activities that are usually associated with the opposite gender.
If you think your child may be confused about their gender, it is important to listen to them and take their views and feelings seriously. Allowing them space to express themselves and providing a safe environment to talk is essential.
If you’re worried, talking to a medical professional or specialist can provide more guidance and support.
What age does gender dysphoria appear?
Gender dysphoria can appear at any age, although it is most commonly diagnosed in adolescents and young adults. Symptoms typically start during childhood or adolescence, but it is possible for adults to develop gender dysphoria as well.
Signs can vary by individual and range from mild feelings of not fitting in to extreme distress and discomfort. Symptoms can include a strong desire to change one’s body, a feeling that one’s gender identity and/or assigned gender do not match, a feeling of being embarrassed or ashamed by one’s body, feeling uncomfortable or rejected when referred to by one’s assigned gender, and a strong desire to be the opposite sex.
Generally, gender dysphoria is diagnosed when a person experiences significant difficulty or distress due to the incongruence between their assigned gender and their gender identity. It’s important to note that gender dysphoria is not the same as being transgender, as a person with gender dysphoria may not identify as transgender.
