Authors:

Manya Bhola, Shrutimita Mehta

Abstract:

A person’s physical attributes and representation are the major factors for expressing gender identity. However it must be noted that these expectations, norms and standards are purely built and defined by society. Resultantly, these norms are prejudiced against non- binary individuals who do not befit them. The third gender – the transgenders, eunuchs and our hijra community – all fall outside the strict and stereotypical binary social construct. Either male or female, nothing outside. These communities, as a result, face extreme internal and external trauma that leads to psychological and physical stress. The present research article is titled “Becoming Vidya: Body, Identity and Transformation in I AmVidya” and it scrutinizes Vidya’s autobiography I am Vidya: A Transgender’s Identity, by closely analysing her life, gender struggles, body-issues, gender transition and the resulting emancipation. It shall be explored how her life-writing proves that gender identity formation is both biology and society. The deplorable condition of the Indian Hijra community will also be explored. There will be a special focus on the gender re-assignment surgery that Vidya underwent. 

Keywords:

Gender, Body, Living Smile Vidya, I am Vidya, autobiography, Indian hijra community

Vol & Issue:

VOL.18, ISSUE No.1, March 2026