Yes, the hijra community can be considered a community based on the following reasons:
Shared Identity and Culture:
Hijras share a distinct gender identity, beliefs, practices, and cultural norms that distinguish them from other groups in society. They have a rich history, traditions, and a shared sense of belonging.
Social Organization:
Hijras typically live in their own communities or neighborhoods, known as "derahs". Within these derahs, they have their own leaders, elders, and social hierarchy, which regulates their lives and interactions.
Common Goals and Values:
Hijras often share common goals and values, such as the recognition and acceptance of their gender identity, the protection of their rights, and the preservation of their culture. They participate in collective actions and advocate for these causes.
Social Interactions:
Hijras engage in regular social interactions within their community. They celebrate festivals, socialize, and support each other through life events, such as weddings, funerals, and family gatherings.
Economic Activities:
While some hijras may engage in traditional occupations associated with hijra culture, such as dancing and begging, the community also has diverse economic activities. They may work in fields such as beauty care, entertainment, retail, or social work.
Social Acknowledgement:
The hijra community has gained increasing recognition and acceptance in recent years. In some countries, they have been granted legal rights and protections as a marginalized community. This recognition further strengthens their sense of community and identity.
Historical Continuity:
The hijra community has a long and documented history. Archaeological evidence and ancient texts suggest that hijras have been present in South Asia for centuries, indicating their enduring nature as a community.
Therefore, based on these factors, the hijra community meets the criteria of a community, characterized by shared identity, culture, social organization, common goals, social interactions, economic activities, social recognition, and historical continuity.