The Hijras of India, Pakistan and Bangladesh

Paper Summary:

The word 'Hijra' is derived from Urdu, meaning 'Eunuch'. This paper aims to give a descriptive account of the origins of the Hijra with respect to Islam and Hinduism and that of their modern day community structure, whilst consequently highlighting the absolute identity transformation they experienced during these two transitional periods.
Outline
Introduction
Religious Role Derived From Hinduism
Historical Role of Hijras in Muslim Courts
The Hijra Community Today
Stigmatization vs. Honor
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The Hijra community is very similar in function to the Hindu Caste System. They are a sect of their own, united in like with the family system. There are seven nation-wide communal households known as gharanas for the most part in cities throughout Northern India, having their own history and rules of behaviour. Each household is head by a nayak who appoints a guru or a preacher trained to protect the community members, whose disciples are referred to as chelas or students and traditionally amount to about five per guru. Before entering the community, the hijra has to live in satla (female attire) and observe the community for at least a year. "

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