Kinner, also referred to as Kinnar, primarily represents a third gender identity, particularly within the context of Indian culture.
Understanding Kinner Identity
Kinner is a term often used by hijra people to identify themselves, drawing a connection to the Hindu mythological figures who are hybrid horse/human celestial dancers. Historically, and even today, this identity is considered closer to a third gender category than the Western binary understanding of gender as simply male or female.
- Third Gender: The core of kinner identity is that it falls outside of the traditional male/female gender binary.
- Cultural Context: Kinner identity is deeply rooted in Indian culture and history. The reference to the hybrid horse/human figures highlights the unique place this identity holds within their cultural understanding.
- Historical Perspective: From antiquity, those who identify as hijra/kinner have been acknowledged as a distinct gender category, predating modern Western transgender concepts.
Kinner Identity vs. Western Transgender
While there might be overlap, it is crucial to understand that Kinner identity is not simply a direct equivalent of Western transgender. Here's a comparison:
| Feature | Kinner/Hijra Identity | Western Transgender Identity |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Rooted in cultural, historical, and spiritual traditions. Often viewed as a third gender, not necessarily a transition from male to female | Primarily based on the individual's gender identity not aligning with the sex assigned at birth |
| Social Position | Traditionally have specific social roles and cultural significance in India. | Often involves societal struggles for acceptance and recognition. |
| Terminology | Use of specific terminology like kinner and hijra to denote this specific identity. | Use of terms like transgender, trans woman, or trans man, reflecting Western gender concepts. |
Key Takeaways
- Kinner/hijra people identify with a third gender category, not simply a male or female.
- Their identity is deeply entwined with Indian culture, history, and spiritual beliefs.
- Kinner identity existed before modern Western concepts of transgender emerged.
- Understanding this difference helps to appreciate the diverse expressions of gender around the world.
Reference:
Hijra people refer to themselves as kinnar/kinner—a reference to the Hindu hybrid horse/human figures of the celestial dance. From Indian antiquity, hijra people have been considered closer to third gender categories than to contemporary Western binary notions of transgender (Talwar 1999, Singh 2001).
