Socio cultural exclusion of transgender a study of Eunuchs Hijras

Abstract

This study was undertaken to examine the socio-cultural life of hijras and their issues in Chandigarh and Mohali region; and tried to understand comprehensively, socio-cultural aspects and exclusion of hijras. For the data collection researcher used snowball sampling technique and selected 20 respondents. This is ethnographic study using qualitative methods like case study method, narratives and observation. An interview guide was prepared for the data collection. The outcome of the study is that hijras are the most vulnerable, excluded, suppressed and most inferior group in the society. They are mostly engaged in begging at various places e.g. roads, trains, buses, shops; taking badhai in ceremonies and are also into prostitution. Hijra community is a closed community which carries unique socio-cultural system. To understand the unique hijra culture, the researcher carry out an in depth study comprising various issues such as rituals, traditions and customs that are quite different from the rest of the society. newline