Not sure if anyone has brought this up but a few nights ago I watched a show on CNN called "Harsh Beauty" which covered the lifestyles of several hijiras in Mombai. I think it was Worlds Untold Stories program It was sympathetic and very interesting. If you happen to run accross it, it is worth seeing. It is not at all graphic :( but I watched it twice anyway and enjoyed it both times.:)

Thank you for pointing this out. The documentary, by Alessandra Zeka, was originally released in 2005 and has been nearly impossible to obtain. CNN has broadcast it and has also posted it on their web site for a short while. Watch it quick if you’re interested, it won’t be up for long!

Here is a quick summary of the film from the IMDb, followed by links to the three sections (each about 8-1/2 minutes) on the CNN web site:

Harsh Beauty

For centuries, Eunuchs have been an important part of Indian society. But the elevated role they once held has now faded. Today they live in isolated communities, working as prostitutes and beggars. Life may be hard but inside the community, there's a real sense of warmth and camaraderie. 'Harsh Beauty' follows the lives of Jyothi, Usha and Hira Bai, three Eunuchs who struggle for acceptance in a culture splintered by religion, caste and politics. Filmed over four years and accompanied by a vibrant soundtrack, it's a warm and poignant look inside this usually hidden group.

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/intern ... part.1.cnn

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/intern ... auty.2.cnn

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/intern ... auty.3.cnn