Hijras are predominantly assigned male at birth, though a small number may be intersex. This means most hijras are biologically male, possessing male genitalia, although some may undergo castration or other physical modifications. The term "hijra" encompasses a diverse range of gender identities and expressions, and should not be solely defined by biological sex.
Key Biological Aspects:
- Mostly Assigned Male at Birth: The majority of individuals identifying as hijra are born with male biological sex characteristics.
- Intersex Variations: A small percentage of hijras may be born with intersex variations, meaning they have sex characteristics that do not fit typical binary definitions of male or female.
- Physical Modifications: Some hijras may undergo surgical or other physical modifications to align their bodies with their gender identity. This can include castration or breast implants, as noted in several sources.
Important Considerations:
- Beyond Biology: It is crucial to understand that being a hijra is not solely defined by biological sex. Hijra identity is deeply rooted in cultural and social factors, encompassing a unique gender expression and community structure. Reducing their identity to solely biological factors is inaccurate and reductive.
- Diversity within the Community: The hijra community is diverse, and individual experiences and identities vary widely.
The information provided emphasizes that while most hijras are biologically male, a focus solely on biological sex ignores the rich cultural and social significance of hijra identity. The use of terms like "eunuch" or "hermaphrodite" is outdated and often inaccurate, as it fails to capture the nuanced reality of this community.
