“I didn’t want to beg. I didn’t want to do sex work. I wanted to be my own boss. And today, I am.

I’m Bajani Premleela, founder of Premleela Creations, an eco-friendly micro-enterprise in Hyderabad. I was born into a family that, for generations, was involved in sanitation work—work that came with serious health risks. My father and brother passed away due to complications from these hazardous conditions. Those losses shaped me early in life.

There was another reality I carried. Though I was assigned male at birth, I always knew I was a girl. I felt most at ease among women. But growing up, I couldn’t speak about it. I often felt invisible, confused, and lonely.

Things began to shift when I met other transgender persons in my teens. I felt seen. But survival was still a struggle. With no support system and a sick mother, I was pushed into begging and later into sex work—one of the few options available to transgender women. It was dangerous. I faced violence, theft, and constant fear. And I realised how society limits us, often ignoring our skills and dreams.

But I didn’t want to remain in survival mode. I completed my matriculation and intermediate studies. I applied for jobs and worked briefly, but rejection followed me everywhere—because I was transgender, and because of my past. Even banks were unwilling to support someone like me.

So I made a decision: I would build something of my own.

In October 2021, I joined a two-month jute training programme launched by the Government of Telangana, exclusively for transgender persons. I trained at Durgabai Mahila Sisu Vikasa Kendram, Kukatpally, and graduated in January 2022. That was the start of Premleela Creations.

Jute appealed to me—it’s natural, sustainable, and safe. I started with jute bags and utility items. But I knew I needed more skills.

Over time, I trained in organic snack making, tie and dye, café management, broadcasting, makeup, and legal rights. Some of these I use professionally; others help me support fellow community members.

In October 2023, I officially registered Premleela Creations under the National Small Industries Corporation. From a modest setup, we grew into a small team.

On Telangana Formation Day 2024, both the Governor and Chief Minister visited our stall. Soon after, the British Deputy High Commissioner inaugurated our paper plate unit. HSBC also launched our brochure.

We’ve showcased our products at events by Goldman Sachs, Wipro, State Street, and Telangana Police. In 2022, IAS officer Smita Sabharwal appreciated our work publicly, which gave us a huge boost.

I didn’t have savings or business roots. But I had determination. With the support of Prabhavana Jute Society and mentor Ms. Deepa Sanka, I’ve carved a path for myself.

Premleela Creations stands for self-reliance, sustainability, and fair practices. It’s more than a business—it’s proof that transgender persons can thrive when given the opportunity, or when they create it for themselves.

I may have taken the longest road—but today, I walk it with confidence.”