A Comparison of the Hijra Transgenders Social Status Between the Mughal Empire and the Post-colonial Era

Abstract

The Hijra population has been suppressed and discriminated against in India on multiple levels of social life. However, this stigmatization toward hijras only begins quite recently. In fact, hijras used to serve a very prominent role in ancient times, especially in the Mughal era. It was not until the British colonization that public attitudes toward hijras start to morph. This paper attempts to illustrate the social status differences of transgender group in Hijra between the Mughal Empire and the post-colonial era. The changes in their social status can be seen in four aspects: main occupations, social exclusion, health and safety condition and regulations that target hijras. This paper finds that the social status of hijras experienced a downturn during the post-colonial era. They are forced into prostitution and begging, which are low-paid and frowned-upon. These jobs put them at high risk of getting infected with venereal diseases and exposed them to sadistic customers that jeopardize their safety. A large number of legislations that deprived hijras of their fundamental rights emerged and gained public acceptance. Additionally, social exclusion in schools and work settings are prevalent. This study enriches peoples understanding of the hijra community, and provides a more holistic view on the shift in social status of hijras. Moreover, it calls on progressive improvements on legislation and social acceptance to protect the human rights of hijras.