A Voice Rising Amidst Silence
Chandigarh, April 18, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)
Anaya Bangar, the transgender daughter of former Indian cricketer and ex-batting coach Sanjay Bangar, has broken her silence to reveal the disturbing reality of sexual harassment, toxic masculinity, and emotional trauma she endured within the Indian cricketing ecosystem. In a deeply moving interview with Lallantop, Anaya reflected on her transformation journey and the shocking treatment she received from some of her peers.
Transition Journey: From Aryan to Anaya
Formerly known as Aryan Bangar, Anaya had played competitive age-group cricket alongside notable Indian players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, and Musheer Khan. Though she was already grappling with her gender identity, she had to conceal her truth due to social stigma and her family’s public profile.
“I used to pick clothes from my mom’s cupboard when I was eight or nine. I’d look in the mirror and say, ‘I am a girl. I want to be a girl.’”
Despite her deep personal struggles, Anaya pursued cricket as Aryan for years before undergoing Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and gender-affirming surgery.
Harassment and Toxic Masculinity in Cricket
While Anaya received some support from her cricketing circle, she also recounted harrowing experiences of harassment, revealing that multiple cricketers she once shared the field with sent her unsolicited nude images after learning about her transition.
“There have been a few cricketers who randomly sent me nude pictures of them,” she said in the interview.
Even more disturbing were her experiences of verbal harassment and sexual advances:
– “There was one veteran cricketer who said, ‘Let’s go in the car. I want to sleep with you.'”
– “Another person used to hurl abuses in public and later sit beside me to ask for photos.”
Her words laid bare a cricket culture marred by insecurity and toxic masculinity, one that often prioritizes silence and shame over dignity and safety.
Cricket, Identity, and Isolation
Anaya’s need to hide her true identity wasn’t just personal—it was strategic. Being the daughter of a prominent cricket figure, she feared backlash and isolation.
“I had to maintain secrecy about myself because dad is a well-known figure.”
Her story throws light on the unwelcoming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals in Indian sports, especially in traditionally male-dominated spaces like cricket.
Broader Context: Trans Rights in Cricket
Anaya’s revelations come at a time when the International Cricket Council (ICC) and national boards are re-evaluating transgender participation in the sport.
– The ICC has revised its transgender participation policies.
– The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently updated its rules, now barring transgender women from top-tier international and domestic matches.
This global backdrop adds gravity to Anaya’s story, highlighting the growing tensions between inclusivity, competition fairness, and regulatory policies.
Reactions and Support
While her story has shocked many, Anaya has also received praise for her bravery, with advocates urging cricketing bodies to reform internal cultures, implement safeguarding protocols, and open dialogue around gender diversity.
FAQs About Anaya Bangar and Transgender Issues in Cricket
Who is Anaya Bangar?
Anaya is the transgender daughter of former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar. Formerly known as Aryan, she played age-group cricket and has now transitioned to her true identity.
What allegations has Anaya made?
Anaya has alleged that multiple cricketers sent her unsolicited nude pictures, made sexually explicit comments, and exhibited verbal and sexual harassment.
Why is her story significant?
Her testimony highlights the deep-rooted toxic masculinity in cricket and the lack of safe spaces for transgender individuals in Indian sports.
What is the ICC’s current policy on transgender players?
The ICC recently updated its policy, restricting transgender women from international and top-tier domestic competitions, prompting global debate on fairness vs. inclusion.
Has Anaya named the harassers?
No, Anaya has not disclosed specific names in public, though she mentioned having played with cricketers like Sarfaraz Khan, Musheer Khan, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
How is the cricket community responding?
There has been a mix of shock and support, with many calling for systemic changes, including education, policy reform, and awareness on gender sensitivity.
A Call for Change in the Cricketing World
Anaya Bangar’s brave decision to speak up is not just a personal story—it’s a wake-up call for Indian cricket and global sports. Her experiences reflect a larger issue of how traditional institutions often fail those who don’t conform to heteronormative identities.
With her voice, Anaya is not just seeking justice for herself, but advocating for a future where athletes are valued for their talent—not judged for their identity. Her story is a powerful reminder that true inclusion requires courage, accountability, and institutional reform.
