Existing as they have for centuries, the Hijras, (Eunuchs) are considered the third gender, neither men nor women.

Harsh Beauty follows over a period of three years the lives of Jyothi, Usha and Hira Bai, three eunuchs who live openly as women, and want to be accepted for what they truly believe themselves to be.

This documentary uses a verite’ approach, creating intimate and personal accounts of their lives, without presenting an anthropological perspective.

Set against the vibrant energy of the Indian metropolis, Harsh Beauty takes a glance into a community rarely seen and often misunderstood.

Directed and Produced by ALESSANDRA ZEKA.
Produced and Edited by HOLEN KAHN.