Anaya Bangar, formerly Aryan Bangar, recently shared her journey of self-discovery as she transitioned into life as a transgender woman through hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
The 23-year-old daughter of former Indian cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar, Anaya is a talented left-handed batter who currently plays for Islam Gymkhana in Mumbai.
Anaya’s heartfelt social media post about her 10-month transition journey generated widespread support and opened up critical discussions on identity and acceptance in sports. Although the post was later removed, she offered glimpses into her experience, including treasured moments shared with cricket stars Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni.
Despite the support, Anaya discussed the challenges posed by her HRT journey, which involved estrogen and antiandrogens to align her physical traits with her gender identity. While the therapy has allowed her to live more authentically, it has also reduced her muscle mass and athletic strength, affecting her performance in cricket. “As a trans woman on hormone replacement therapy, my body has changed drastically. The game I’ve loved for so long is slipping away from me,” she shared.
Anaya also highlighted the absence of formal guidelines for transgender athletes in cricket, which has complicated her path forward. “My testosterone levels are down to 0.5 nmol, the lowest it can be for an average cisgender woman. Yet, I still don’t have a place to represent my country or play at a professional level as my authentic self,” she expressed.
Even with these obstacles, Anaya emphasized the fulfillment she has found in her journey, noting, “Losing strength but gaining happiness. Body changing, dysphoria easing… still a long way to go, but each step feels more like me.”
Anaya’s journey not only illustrates the profound emotional and physical transformations of gender-affirming treatment but also calls attention to the need for inclusive policies in sports. Her story resonates as a testament to resilience and self-identity, sparking essential conversations on acceptance and support for transgender athletes worldwide.
