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Documentary backdrop image for Eunuchs: India's Third Gender (1998)
51 minPGdocumentary

Synopsis

A 3,600-strong sect of eunuchs in India claims descent from the gods and lives in relative luxury while others explain their painful castration.

Deep Dive

Why Watch

  • Meet India's 3,600 hijras and their unique culture.
  • Find out why some men undergo painful castration.
  • See the intersection of divinity and daily life for eunuchs.

Did You Know

  • There are 3,600 members in the ancient hijra sect in India.
  • Some Indian men choose to undergo painful castration for various reasons.
  • The hijras claim to be descendants of the gods.

Perfect For

Gender identity studiesCultural anthropologyIndian social issues
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the estimated population of eunuchs in India?

There are approximately 3,600 eunuchs in India who are part of an ancient sect.

What do some Indian men undergo to become eunuchs?

Some Indian men undergo painful castration to join the eunuch community.

What is the relationship between eunuchs and divinity in their culture?

Eunuchs in India claim to be descended from the gods and live in relative luxury.

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