S Feldman: Modern world plays havoc with age-old livelihood

15.1.11

Modern world plays havoc with age-old livelihood: [smh.com.au] "For thousands of years, hijras such as Suman have been part of the subcontinent's complex civilisation. But her implants and her sex work are indicators of how this unique community is under pressure amid rapid social and economic change in India.

The blessing, or curse, of a hijra is considered unusually potent because of their transgender nature. Hijras have traditionally survived by demanding money from families in return for blessing a newborn child or newly married couple. They also dance and sing and tell bawdy jokes at weddings and festivals. They are known for their aggressive collection tactics, which can include threats to strip unless they are paid to leave. Many families give them money because they fear being cursed.

But advocates for hijras say they are being forced into sex work."

Labels: gender, India, south asia, womens issues