A New Identity On The Pitch: Jamshedpur Debuts India’s First Transgender Football Tournament

Last Updated:December 09, 2025, 15:46 IST

Jamshedpur Super League launched the first Transgenders’ League with seven teams, marking a milestone for inclusivity in Indian football.

Snapshots from India's first Transgender League (X)

In a landmark moment for Indian football, seven transgender teams stepped onto the pitch in Jamshedpur for the first-ever Transgenders’ League, a dedicated tournament held under the umbrella of the Jamshedpur Super League (JSL).

The league, which kicked off on Sunday, features Jamshedpur FT, Chaibasa FC, Chakradharpur FC, Jamshedpur Indranagar FC, Naomundi FC, Saraikela FC and Kolhan Tiger FC, competing in a fast-paced five-a-side format.

What began as a four-team plan quickly expanded to seven as interest surged — an early sign of how much this platform was needed.

Opening day delivered drama and dominance. Jamshedpur FT hammered Chaibasa FC 7-0, powered by a four-goal show from Puja Soy, who described the moment as a personal breakthrough.

“For the first time, I felt like I wasn’t being seen for my gender, but for my game," she said, glowing after her performance.

Kolhan Tiger FC claimed a 3-0 win over Chakradharpur FC, while Jamshedpur Indranagar FC and Noamundi FC battled to a cagey goalless draw.

For many players, simply stepping onto a professional field was transformational.

“This is the first time we are playing in a proper professional environment," said Aliya, another participant.

“The support from the club and the fans makes us feel like we truly belong to the football family."

Jamshedpur FT captain Pyari Hessa called the league a milestone.

“It gives us a platform we never had before… and will hopefully inspire other states to create similar spaces."

A platform for inclusivity in football

For ISL side Jamshedpur FC, the Transgenders’ League is more than a tournament — it’s a statement of intent. The initiative sits at the heart of the club’s expanding community outreach, which aims to make football inclusive, accessible and representative.

“The introduction of the Transgender Football League marks a progressive and meaningful step…" said Kundan Chandra, Head of Grassroots and Youth Football. “Football must serve as a platform where talent is nurtured without discrimination."

The league fields 70 players from diverse backgrounds — Tata Steel employees, daily-wage workers, small business staff — all united by one thing: the chance to play. Across 42 fixtures, each team will get 12 matches, ensuring consistent game time.

The JSL itself has grown beyond the AIFF Blue Cubs framework into a six-month “football festival" built on inclusivity — a model other states may soon look to replicate.

(with PTI inputs)

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