This research paper critically traces the portrayal of nonbinary identities of the third gender, specifically transsexual and transgender individuals in Indian Mythological and Literary discourse. India has a rich culture and literary heritage that encompasses diverse gender identities, including, “ali, aravani, chhakka, hijra, jogappa, khusra, khasuaa, kinnar, kojja, maada, mukhannathun, napunsak, nau number, pavaiyaa, Thirunangai etc, depending upon the region” (Saxena, 2011 p.6). Historically these different regional identities were recognised as the third gender. However, the representation of this non-binary identity in Indian Literary text often been compromised, and hence falls victim to stereotypes and misinterpretations. The identity and the discourse attached to it have been peripheral, and most of the portrayals have substantiated the already existing popular myths about them. It is only recently that they are getting middle brow attention in academics of gender studies, literatures as well as in Hindi movies and the demystification about their identity and life is taking place. The present paper analyses the portrayal the non-binary identities in Indian mythologies and literary text.
Assistant Professor, Dept. of English, Dr. C. V. Raman University, Vaishali
