Patna: Patna Women’s College (Autonomous), under Patna University, celebrated Christmas Milan on December 22 with a focus on kindness and inclusion. The programme, held on the college premises, brought together members of the transgender community and rickshaw pullers, turning a festive tradition into a meaningful social event. Organised every year before the Christmas and New Year holidays, the celebration is jointly hosted by the college administration and the Alumni Association.
The programme began in the morning at the basketball court with an interaction session involving around 66 transgender participants. Teachers and organisers spent time listening to their experiences and sharing moments of joy. Later, nearly 150 rickshaw pullers were welcomed to the campus for a separate interaction. The gathering created an atmosphere of warmth and equality, as people from different walks of life came together under one roof.
Addressing the guests, Principal Dr Sister M. Rashmi A.C. expressed her happiness and gratitude for their presence. She spoke about the importance of respect, empathy and shared humanity, especially during festivals. The guests were given shawls and blankets to help them during the winter season and were entertained with songs and games organised by Dr Manjula Sushila, head of the Hindi department. The simple activities brought smiles and laughter, making the event lively and memorable.
Prizes were distributed by senior faculty members and representatives of the Alumni Association, while refreshments were served to all guests before they left. The programme was smoothly conducted by faculty members from different departments, reflecting teamwork across the college. Speaking at the event, Ms Reshma, president of Transgender Friends, said that members of the transgender community are now working in many professions and deserve equal opportunities and dignity. The celebration concluded with carol singing by the Sisters of the Apostolic Carmel, leaving behind a clear message of compassion, inclusion and shared celebration.
