Kollam: Achieving a milestone for the transgender community, Krishnendu, a native of Vadakkumthala near Karunagappally, became the first transgender to pass the higher secondary equivalency exam in the state.

Krishnachandran was the eighth son of Saraswathi. Krishnachandran who was born as a boy always dreamt to live a woman. Later he changed his gender. Thus, Krishnachandran came to be known as Krishnendu. She studied along with her elder sister Bindu at Chavara Panmana Manayil Higher Secondary School. However, Krishnendu passed the higher secondary equivalency exam with high scores.

Krishnendu's father died early and her companion was her bedridden mother. Nevertheless, she passed the exam in flying colours due to her grit and self determination despite the hardships.

31-year-old Krishnendu’s philosophy says age and gender aren’t a barrier in learning. For her, it doesn’t end here. She is now preparing for graduation.

District Literacy Mission has felicitated Krishnendu upon her victory. At an event held at district panchayat, President C Radhamani handed over a gift. C K Pradeep, Coordinator of District Literacy Mission opined that this is an example to prove that gender difference is not a barrier for higher studies.