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Queerness - A Quest for Identity, a study on the novel I am Vidya, A Transgender’s Journey by Living Smile Vidya.
Subject area: Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities · Area of research: Cultural Studies, Gender Studies
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I8-1714188
Abstract
This research delves into the complexities of gender identity, with a particular emphasis on transgender individuals. It critically examines Living Smile Vidya’s autobiography, “I Am Vidya: A Transgender’s Journey”, as a primary source to understand the personal and societal struggles of the Indian Hijra community. The study highlights the challenges faced by hijras, including marginalization, identity crises, and their ongoing fight for cultural, social, and political recognition. Vidya’s journey as a hijra, writer, social worker, and influential figure is explored to shed light on her transformation and the broader movement for acceptance. Additionally, the research investigates how Vidya’s personal narrative functions as a call for societal inclusivity, urging recognition of transgender individuals as normative members of society. By weaving together themes of accessibility, marginalization, and identity, this study seeks to contribute to discourse on transgender representation and rights in India. It aims to provide a deeper understanding of the obstacles and triumphs experienced by hijras while advocating for increased social integration and empowerment. Through an analysis of Vidya’s life and work, this research underscores the necessity of acknowledging and embracing the diverse identities that constitute the fabric of Indian society.
Keywords
Queer, Identity, Gender Politics, Abuse, Harassment, Trauma.
References
[1] Vidya, Living Smile. I Am Vidya: A Transgender’s Journey. New Delhi: Rupa Publications India, 2013.
[2] Foucault, Michel. The History of Sexuality: The Will to Knowledge. Translated by Robert Hurley. London: Penguin Books. 2008.
[3] Sedgwick, Eve Kosofsky. Between Men: English Literature and Male Homosocial Desire. New York: Columbia University Press. 1985.
[4] Kirby, Michael. “The Sodomy Offence: England’s Least Lovely Criminal Law Export?” In Human Rights, Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in The Commonwealth, edited by Corinne Lennox and Matthew Waites, 61–82. University of London Press. http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctv512st2.6. 2013.
[5] Grant, Jaime M., Lisa A. Mottet, Justin Tanis, Jack Harrison, Jody L. Herman, and Mara Keisling. Injustice at Every Turn: A Report of the National Transgender Discrimination Survey. Washington: National Center for Transgender Equality and National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. 2011.
How to cite this paper
@article{1714188,
author = {Jeeva D, Dr. R. Ranjini Selvarani},
title = {Queerness - A Quest for Identity, a study on the novel I am Vidya, A Transgender’s Journey by Living Smile Vidya.},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2026},
volume = {9},
number = {8},
pages = {314-319},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1714188.pdf},
abstract = {This research delves into the complexities of gender identity, with a particular emphasis on transgender individuals. It critically examines Living Smile Vidya’s autobiography, “I Am Vidya: A Transgender’s Journey”, as a primary source to understand the personal and societal struggles of the Indian Hijra community. The study highlights the challenges faced by hijras, including marginalization, identity crises, and their ongoing fight for cultural, social, and political recognition. Vidya’s journey as a hijra, writer, social worker, and influential figure is explored to shed light on her transformation and the broader movement for acceptance. Additionally, the research investigates how Vidya’s personal narrative functions as a call for societal inclusivity, urging recognition of transgender individuals as normative members of society. By weaving together themes of accessibility, marginalization, and identity, this study seeks to contribute to discourse on transgender representation and rights in India. It aims to provide a deeper understanding of the obstacles and triumphs experienced by hijras while advocating for increased social integration and empowerment. Through an analysis of Vidya’s life and work, this research underscores the necessity of acknowledging and embracing the diverse identities that constitute the fabric of Indian society.},
keywords = {Queer, Identity, Gender Politics, Abuse, Harassment, Trauma.},
month = {February},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I8-1714188}
}