Hijra is a term used in South Asia to refer to individuals who do not identify strictly as male or female. Often assigned male at birth, hijras may adopt feminine gender expression, and some undergo a traditional initiation ceremony that involves the removal of the male genitalia. They are recognized as a third gender in some South Asian countries and have a long history in the region, with mentions in religious texts and historical accounts. Hijras often live in close-knit communities with their own social structures and traditions, and while they have historically held certain cultural and sometimes religious roles, they also face significant social stigma and discrimination in many parts of South Asia today. The term encompasses a diverse group of people, and while some may identify as transgender women, the identity of Hijra is distinct and deeply rooted in the socio-cultural context of the Indian subcontinent.