Transgenders celebrate Pongal with Collector in their new residential colony near Sattur

Transgenders in Kundayiruppu celebrate first Pongal in new homes, thanks to government support and community inclusion.

Transgenders of Kundayiruppu celebrated their ‘thalai” (first) Pongal’ in their residential colony on Monday after the State government handed over 21 houses to them in 2024.

Virudhunagar Collector V.P. Jeyaseelan took part in the “Samathuva Pongal” with the transgenders where in they had several competitions.

The transgenders were earlier living in rented houses in two different locations. They were at the mercy of the local people.

“We had suffered a lot without any basic facilities in the past. But, after the district administration gave us free houses (in November 2024), we now live a happy life. We have good houses, paver block road and drinking water facility,” said Niroja, 35.

The district administration also set up Aariyur tea stall on the residential premises.

“One of our residents is running the tea stall. People are no more discriminating us and all of them come here to take tea from us,” she said.

The transgenders eagerly participated in kolam competition, musical chair, spoon and lemon and ‘uriyadi’. All the winners got prizes from the Collector.