Anaya Bangar to Complete Gender-Affirming Journey with Father’s Suppo

New Delhi, February 4, 2026: In a story that marks a significant moment for inclusivity in Indian sports and society, Anaya Bangar, daughter of former Indian cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar, has announced she will undergo gender-affirming surgery (vaginoplasty) in March 2026.

The 25-year-old, who has documented her transition from Aryan to Anaya over the past several years, shared that this upcoming milestone is the result of half a decade of patience, medical consultation, and personal reflection.

A Journey of Authenticity and Resilience

Anaya’s transition first captured public attention in late 2024 when she shared the physical and emotional toll of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) on social media. As a talented left-handed batter who once dreamed of following in her father’s footsteps, she spoke candidly about the “painful reality” of losing muscle mass and athletic strength to align with her true self.

“I’ve waited for this moment for five years,” Anaya shared in a recent interview. “This surgery isn’t about proving anything to society. It’s about finally feeling at home in my body.”

Despite the challenges, including facing harassment and being sidelined by evolving regulations in women’s cricket, Anaya has remained a vocal advocate for transgender rights within the sporting ecosystem.

A Father’s Support: Breaking the Stigma

One of the most heartening aspects of Anaya’s announcement is the unwavering support of her family. While she previously hinted at the complexities of navigating her identity within a high-profile cricketing family, she confirmed that her father, Sanjay Bangar, is fully backing her—emotionally and financially.

• Financial Support: Sanjay Bangar is reportedly covering the full expenses of the surgery.
• Family Unity: Recent public appearances and family photos have signaled a strong, united front, offering a powerful counter-narrative to the stigma often faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in India.
• Guidance: Anaya noted that she sought advice from other prominent trans figures, including fashion designer Saisha Shinde and actress Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju, who guided her through the process.

The Road Ahead: Recovery and the Future of Cricket

The surgery is scheduled to take place at a specialized clinic in Thailand. Following the procedure, Anaya will undergo a rigorous recovery period, which will include:

• One month of mandatory stay in Thailand for medical monitoring.
• At least six months away from the cricket pitch to allow her body to heal fully.

While current international regulations (including those from the ICC) present hurdles for trans women who have undergone male puberty, Anaya remains hopeful. She recently underwent physical testing at Manchester Metropolitan University to compare her athletic markers with cisgender female athletes, aiming to contribute to evidence-based discussions on fairness and inclusion in sports.

Why This Matters

Anaya Bangar’s story is more than a personal health update; it is a landmark case for the “Next Gen” of Indian athletes. By speaking out, she is forcing a conversation in a country where gender identity is often a taboo subject. Her journey emphasizes that “fairness” in sports should be based on science rather than fear, and that a parent’s support can be the most vital tool in a child’s transition.