VOICES OF RESILIENCE: THE LANGUAGE AND ORAL TRADITIONS OF THE HIJRA COMMUNITY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v2.i2.2021.2263Keywords:
Hijra Community, Marginalized Communities, Identity Expression, Orature, Social PracticesAbstract [English]
This paper explores the intricate relationship between language, performance, and identity within the Hijra community, a marginalized group in South Asia known for its rich oral traditions. Through a detailed examination of the community's songs, rituals, and social practices, the study highlights how language serves as both a means of communication and a powerful symbol of cultural identity. The Hijra community primarily relies on oral narratives, utilizing regional scripts to document their songs while maintaining a vibrant oral culture. Interviews with community members reveal their daily lives, the challenges they face, and their unique role in performing blessings during significant life events. This research further investigates the performative aspects of their existence, illustrating how Hijras navigate societal norms and assert their identities through artistic expression. By categorizing their songs into distinct forms, such as Badhai and Banna-Banni Geet, the paper emphasizes the significance of these musical practices in preserving cultural heritage. Ultimately, the findings underscore the resilience of the Hijra community and the importance of language as a living expression of identity, history, and community.
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