The third sex: where are you now, Lord Shiva ?

Sarita and I, alongwith some great field people, spent the morning today talking to Hijras - the third sex - , blessed by the great Lord Shiva him/herself, according to our mythology. I had met them a few months ago, and their problems then - about lack of identity papers, money, livelihood, medical care, food and shelter, not to mention stigma and discrimination - are still their problems today. Mausi' s story (see earlier post) is heart-rending. I want to say that is the reality of these people, everything is heart-rending. The things we take for granted are out of reach for them. Not just the roti, kapda aur makaan, but also basic grappling with who they are in a society that simply does not want to see them. They proudly say to us - we are hijras, we can go anywhere -, but when asked where they feel safe, they talk about their small commune. They are of all ages, graceful beyond belief at times, flashing eyes and oozing attitude. They favour bright sarees and brighter make-up, and dance with grace and vigour. They fall madly in love, and make devoted wives/partners. To what avail ? They have no options beyond the sex trade and begging. We seek their blessings at our functions, but reject them with savagery at all other times. What can we do for them ? Let's think about it.