Transgender Festival in Tamil Nadu in India – Transgender Festival at Koothandavar Temple at Koovagam in Villupuram in Tamil Nadu

Transgender Festival in Tamil Nadu in India is observed at the Koothandavar Temple. The festival is dedicated to the worship of Koothandavara. Koothandavar Transgender Festival 2026 date is April 28. It is said that Sri Krishna took the form of Mohini – a female form to marry Aravan who was to be sacrificed before the Mahabharata war. The marriage takes place on April 28, 2026. Next day, on April 29, 2026 the thali is removed, mourning the death of Aravaan (Koothandavar). The festival is observed for a fortnight – nearly 18 days

The beauty contest is on April 27, 2026.

The festival is observed on the Tuesday before Chithirai Pournami or the full moon day in Chaitra month. 

Thousands of transgender, homosexuals and eunuchs participate in the festival.

The festival includes marriage of Iravan and his sacrifice. On the final day an effigy of Koothandavara (Iravan) is burned – symbolically his sacrifice.

Koovagam Village is located around 30 KM from Villupuram in Tamil Nadu.