Anaya Bangar, a name that has become synonymous with courage, resilience, and transformation, is a trans woman, cricketer, and emerging figure in the entertainment industry. As the daughter of former Indian cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar, Anaya’s journey from being born as Aryan Bangar to embracing her authentic identity has captivated audiences worldwide. Her story is one of personal evolution, navigating societal challenges, and breaking barriers in the traditionally male-dominated world of cricket.
Early Life and Background
Anaya Bangar was born as Aryan Bangar in India, the child of Sanjay Bangar, a former Indian cricketer known for his all-round skills and later his role as a batting coach for the Indian national team. Growing up in Mumbai, a city pulsating with cricket fervor, Anaya was immersed in the sport from a young age. Her father’s legacy in Indian cricket cast a long shadow, and Anaya initially followed in his footsteps, pursuing cricket with passion and dedication. As a young athlete, she played at the under-16 level, showcasing promise with her batting skills and dreaming of a career in professional cricket.
Anaya’s early years were marked by the pressure of living up to her father’s reputation. She trained rigorously, building what she described as a “ripped masculine body” to excel in the sport. However, beneath the surface, Anaya grappled with a profound sense of unease about her gender identity. This internal conflict would later become a defining aspect of her journey, leading her to make life-altering decisions that would resonate far beyond the cricket field.
Transition and Identity
In 2021, Anaya Bangar publicly began her gender transition, a process that involved hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and gender-affirming surgery. Previously known as Aryan, she adopted the name Anaya Bangar, symbolizing her authentic identity as a trans woman. This transition was not merely a personal milestone but a public statement that sparked widespread discussion in India and beyond.
Anaya has been candid about her journey, sharing her experiences through social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. In an interview with The Indian Express, she reflected on the challenges of transitioning, noting that looking in the mirror as Aryan often left her unsettled. The decision to transition was driven by a desire to live authentically, but it came with significant hurdles, including societal judgment and personal struggles. Anaya revealed that she juggled corporate jobs to fund her hormone therapy, highlighting her determination to embrace her true self despite financial and emotional challenges.
Her openness about her transition has made her a role model for many in the transgender community. Anaya has spoken about the advantage of understanding both male and female perspectives, stating, “I know what it is like from the male perspective. This is an advantage.” This unique viewpoint has shaped her advocacy for inclusivity and her approach to navigating life’s challenges.
Cricketing Journey and Mentorship
Despite her transition, cricket remains an integral part of Anaya’s life. She continues to train and share videos of her batting skills, showcasing elegant straight drives and solid defensive shots. Her social media posts often highlight her love for the game, with captions like “We held bats before we held phones,” reflecting her deep-rooted connection to cricket.
One of the most notable aspects of Anaya’s cricketing journey is her interaction with Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli. In interviews, she revealed that she trained alongside Kohli, who provided her with valuable batting tips and advice on handling pressure. Kohli emphasized the importance of understanding and trusting one’s strengths through rigorous practice, a philosophy that Anaya has internalized. She described watching Kohli bat up close and receiving his mentorship as a pivotal moment in her development as a cricketer.
Anaya’s reunion with childhood friend and Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan in April 2025 further underscored her ties to the cricketing world. Their meeting, captured in heartfelt social media posts, highlighted their shared history of playing cricket together in Mumbai. Sarfaraz expressed excitement about reconnecting with Anaya after three years, emphasizing their bond forged through the sport.
Controversies and Challenges
Anaya Bangar’s journey has not been without controversy, particularly within the conservative landscape of Indian cricket and society. Her transition and outspokenness have sparked debates, drawing both support and criticism. Below are some of the key controversies associated with Anaya:
1. Allegations of Harassment in Cricket
In a candid interview with Lallantop, Anaya revealed a darker side of her experience in cricket, accusing some cricketers of sending her unsolicited nude photos and making inappropriate propositions. She described a toxic culture of masculinity within the sport, where she faced harassment and insults from players she once admired. These revelations sent shockwaves through the cricketing community, raising questions about inclusivity and safety in the sport. Anaya’s decision to speak out was seen as a bold move to challenge the status quo, but it also drew backlash from those who questioned her claims or viewed them as damaging to the sport’s reputation.
2. Family Tensions
Anaya’s relationship with her father, Sanjay Bangar, has been a subject of public scrutiny. In an interview with Aaj Tak, she shared her disappointment that her father did not support her transition as she had hoped. Sanjay reportedly advised her to quit cricket, a suggestion that deeply hurt Anaya, who had expected his backing given his background in the sport. She also revealed that thoughts of suicide crossed her mind during this challenging period, highlighting the emotional toll of familial rejection. These disclosures sparked discussions about the challenges faced by transgender individuals in gaining acceptance from their families, particularly in high-profile households.
3. ECB’s Ban on Trans Women in Cricket
In May 2025, Anaya publicly criticized the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) decision to ban transgender women from competing in women’s events. As a trans cricketer, she described the decision as “personal,” emphasizing her identity as both a trans woman and a cricketer. Her statement, “This isn’t the end of our innings,” resonated with many advocating for transgender inclusion in sports. The controversy highlighted the broader debate about transgender athletes’ participation in professional sports and Anaya’s role as a vocal advocate for change.
4. Social Media Scrutiny
Anaya’s active presence on social media, where she shares videos of her cricket practice, dance routines, and fashion choices, has invited both admiration and criticism. Posts showcasing her in transparent tops, short skirts, or discussing personal milestones like getting her ears and nose pierced have gone viral, with some users praising her confidence and others subjecting her to harsh judgment. Her openness about her transition, including comments about wishing she had been born a girl, has fueled polarized reactions, with some viewing her as a trailblazer and others questioning her choices.
Advocacy and Influence
Beyond cricket, Anaya Bangar is carving a niche in the entertainment industry, leveraging her social media presence to advocate for transgender rights and inclusivity. Her Instagram handle (
@anayabangar
) is a platform where she shares her journey, from cricket practice to personal milestones, inspiring others to embrace their identities. Her videos, whether of her batting or dancing to popular songs like “Love Letter” during a Goa vacation, reflect her multifaceted personality and refusal to be confined to a single narrative.Anaya’s advocacy extends to challenging systemic barriers, particularly in sports. Her response to the ECB’s ban and her revelations about harassment in cricket underscore her commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment. By sharing her story, she aims to pave the way for future generations of transgender athletes, emphasizing that her transition is not just about personal fulfillment but about changing societal perceptions.
Recent Developments
As of May 2025, Anaya continues to balance her cricketing aspirations with her growing presence in the entertainment industry. Her recent posts hint at “something huge coming up,” sparking speculation about new projects or advocacy initiatives. She remains active in London, where she is pursuing opportunities in modeling and fashion, further diversifying her career.
Her reunion with Sarfaraz Khan’s family and her reflections on her cricketing roots demonstrate that, despite the challenges, Anaya remains deeply connected to the sport. Her interactions with prominent figures like Virat Kohli and her outspokenness about the need for change in cricket position her as a unique voice in both sports and social advocacy.
Personal Life and Interests
Anaya’s personal life is as vibrant as her public persona. She enjoys dancing, fashion, and exploring new destinations, as seen in her viral Goa vacation video. Her posts often reflect a zest for life, whether she’s practicing cricket, experimenting with makeup, or sharing nostalgic moments with friends. Anaya’s ability to embrace both her athletic and creative sides has endeared her to a diverse audience, making her a relatable figure for many.
Conclusion
Anaya Bangar’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and resilience. From her early days as a promising cricketer to her courageous transition and advocacy for transgender rights, she has navigated personal and societal challenges with grace. While controversies surrounding her allegations of harassment, family dynamics, and the ECB’s ban have sparked debate, they have also amplified her voice as a changemaker. Anaya’s story is far from over, and as she continues to break barriers in cricket and beyond, she inspires countless others to embrace their true selves.
FAQs About Anaya Bangar
- Who is Anaya Bangar?
Anaya Bangar is the trans daughter of former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar. Formerly known as Aryan, she is a cricketer and advocate for transgender rights, known for her journey through hormone replacement therapy and gender-affirming surgery. - What controversies is Anaya Bangar associated with?
Anaya has been involved in controversies related to allegations of harassment by cricketers, her strained relationship with her father, Sanjay Bangar, and her criticism of the ECB’s ban on trans women in cricket. Her social media presence has also drawn polarized reactions. - Is Anaya Bangar still involved in cricket?
Yes, Anaya continues to play and train in cricket, sharing videos of her batting skills on social media. She has also trained with Virat Kohli and maintains close ties with the cricketing community. - What is Anaya Bangar’s advocacy focus?
Anaya advocates for transgender inclusion in sports and society, challenging toxic masculinity and systemic barriers. She uses her platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by transgender individuals. - Where is Anaya Bangar based now?
As of recent reports, Anaya is based in London, where she is pursuing opportunities in the entertainment industry while continuing her cricketing journey.
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