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Anaya Bangar: A journey of transformation and courage
BY BIPIN DANI
Aryan Bangar, the son of former Indian cricketer and Batting Coach Sanjay Bangar, has courageously transitioned from male to female and now goes by the name Anaya Bangar.
This significant change in her life marks a new chapter, filled with challenges and profound personal growth.
Anaya publicly shared her journey, revealing her experiences with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), a process she undertook to align her physical appearance with her true gender identity.
This transformation is not just a physical one but also an emotional and psychological journey. Despite facing the loss of muscle mass, strength, and certain athletic abilities due to HRT, Anaya's passion for cricket remains undiminished. Inspired by her father's legacy, she continues to hold a deep love for the sport.
However, according to the former India Women's Team Captain, Diana Edulji, her ambition to play the game of cricket at the highest level will not be fulfilled.
"ICC doesn't allow such persons to play in the Women's game", she said without commenting further on the matter.
Anaya's story is not just about personal transition but also highlights the broader challenges faced by transgender athletes in sports.
The current regulations often lag behind the evolving understanding of gender identity, making it difficult for transgender athletes to continue participating at competitive levels. Anaya hopes for more inclusive policies that can accommodate the diverse identities of athletes, ensuring they can pursue their passions without unnecessary obstacles.
However, Anaya's journey is unlikely to be easy, according to a renowned sociologist Dr. Sudha Khokhate.
Speaking from Bangalore, she said: "I feel there exists some gaps and uncertainties in the sports domain with regard to transgender. It's definitely not going to be easy for Anaya. Here, we need to ensure true equality and advocate for legal reforms.”
“Society must undergo a process of gender sensitisation for an inclusive environment in sports. We need to set regulatory boundaries that aid inclusivity in sports. This would help people like Anaya to participate in whichever sports they choose.”
“We shouldn't be denying anybody. The ICC has already narrowed the rules for transgender in cricket, which is sad."
Gender transition is a deeply personal journey, often fraught with societal challenges. While it can offer significant physical, emotional, and mental relief, breaking through societal stereotypes is no easy feat, says sports psychologist, Jaini Nandu.
"Anaya's decision to pursue a cricket career is even more daunting, as athletes in the spotlight are constantly scrutinised. She'll undoubtedly face criticism from those who seek to undermine her achievements.”
“The priority is to safeguard the athlete and the team from undue scrutiny. It involves recognising the sensitivity of the situation, managing emotional responses and developing appropriate coping strategies," the psychologist further added.
"It's important to prepare the team for Anaya's introduction. A series of psychological workshops can help the team process their emotions and reactions. It will also create a supportive environment to build rapport and strengthen team bonding," she added.
Dr. Gourav Siwas, who as a plastic surgeon at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital (New Delhi) has performed such surgeries, said: "Gender reassignment is a series of surgeries Involving face surgery, genital surgery, breast surgery etc.
"These are complex surgeries requiring a high-level of skills. Surgeries are long, taking hours and are conducted in stages."
"Patients do suffer social challenges like acceptability by society. Social awkwardness is also there and society is also evolving and accepting trans Men and Women. Basically, they are like a female in a male body.”
“So it's very difficult for a person also to live like this all of their life. They feel so free after their transformation. Also, all these surgeries are conducted after prior evaluation and clearance by a psychiatrist," the surgeon concluded.
While Anaya's story is compelling and unique, there are other athletes who have faced similar journeys. For instance, English cricketer Maxine Blythin transitioned from male to female and has been vocal about her experiences and the need for inclusivity in sports.
These stories shed light on the importance of acceptance and support for transgender individuals, particularly in highly competitive fields like sports. Anaya's journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication, and it underscores the need for progress in how we accommodate and support all athletes.
Anaya's continued dedication to cricket, even after her transition, highlights the passion and determination that defines her. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength it takes to be true to oneself and the ongoing need for inclusive practices in the world of sports.
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