Transgender identities have long been part of India’s social and cultural landscape. Parliament’s recent passage of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill 2026, has once again reignited issues surrounding gender identity, self-identification and dignity. Among the most significant changes concerns the definition of a “transgender person.” The 2019 Act adopted a broad and inclusive definition, explicitly recognising a spectrum of transgender persons. This amendment, however, replaces this with a narrower formulation; recognising certain socio-cultural identities such as hijra, kinner, aravani, and jogta, but excluding several other identities. A supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community during a protest against passage of Transgender Persons Bill. (PTI photo) In ancient times, members of the transgender community were often integrated into religious and community life, while in the medieval period their roles became more complex and sometimes politically significant. Transgender individuals were involved in religious ceremonies, temple service, and broader cultural practices. As always, understanding the historical recognition of gender diversity–particularly when it comes to the third gender– is essential to situate contemporary debates on transgender identities in India. …