Question

What is a hijra, and what is their function within traditional Indian society? Describe in 400 words

Answer 1

A hijra is a eunuch and they play an institutionalized third gender role in India within traditional Indian society. The celebrate the birth of children in the household. The Hijra community is mentioned in ancient literature, the, for example, the Kama Sutra, a Hindu text on human sexual behavior written sometime between 400 BCE and 200 CE. Hijra's hold significant roles in some of the most important texts of Hinduism, such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. One of the many forms of Shiva, a principal Hindu deity, involves him merging with his wife, Parvati, to become the androgynous Ardhanari, who holds special significance to many in the Hijra community. Hijras use to hold important positions in court and various facets of administration during the Mughal-era India, from the 16th to 19th century. They were known to hold religious authority and were sought out for blessings, particularly during religious ceremonies.