: Often referred to as India's "Third Gender," this community has a recorded history spanning thousands of years, appearing in ancient texts like the Mahabharata and Ramayana . Historically, they held roles as advisors, guardians of harems, and providers of blessings during births and weddings.
: Access to gender-affirming care remains inconsistent, though some state governments (such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala) have implemented welfare boards and specific insurance schemes to cover transition-related medical costs. Language and Terminology india shemale
: Depending on the state, different local terms are used, such as Aravani in Tamil Nadu, Jogappa in Karnataka, or Kothi (though this often refers to feminine-presenting males). : Often referred to as India's "Third Gender,"
: Many are still pushed to the margins of society, often relying on traditional practices like badhai (ritual singing and dancing) or sex work due to discrimination in formal employment. Language and Terminology : Depending on the state,
: This act was passed to provide a legal framework for rights and welfare, though it has faced criticism from activists regarding the "certification" process required to officially change one's legal gender.
: While terms like "shemale" may appear in digital spaces or adult industries, they are largely absent from formal human rights or sociological discourse in India, which prioritizes dignified and inclusive language.