They took on society and pushed the envelope to create a market of their own in this industry. They not only accepted themselves but also embraced themselves and therefore the world accepted them regardless of the societal norms of the typical Indian mentality shunning all the socio cultural structures and such. Meet Alex Mathew/Maya the Drag Queen who is popular and living it up every single day.
When and why did you decide to become a drag queen?
It was in September 2014 that I decided to become a drag queen. I decided to become a drag queen after facing rejections in theatre on the basis of my femininity and accent. It’s when I came across a movie known as Mrs. Doubtfire that I knew that if Robin Willams can do drag, I can do drag too.
Did you go through any problems on your way there? Please share.
Well, I didn’t have makeup or any drag clothes. So, I had to borrow from friends and my mother. For my first performance, I wore my mother’s sari and blouse.
If you did face issues, what gave you strength to continue?
I continued because I had a goal and that was to have fun and spread love to the audience. My friends understood that and helped me prepare for my first performance.
Have you ever been body shamed?
Yes, I have been body shamed.
What kind of criticism or remarks have you faced? and what has been your response to these situations?
There were people who out rightly said to lose weight and to point said that I look pregnant. I had responded with a pic and caption said “I know you will cringe to see my midriff hanging out. I will let it hang out because it’s my body. I am not subjected to insane body standards by Bollywood or fashion industry. I don’t want to fall into the societal prey of having an ideal fit body. I am going to take my own time to be fit. It has been a struggle to lose weight. This is because food is my addiction after being body shamed by my exes. Irrespective of the body shaming I faced, I chose to carry on with my performances because that’s what drives me and gives me the adrenaline rush. Next time, you body shame anyone, think about the human inside.”
Did you feel you were included in the industry from the time you started? Have you ever felt excluded?
Being a drag queen was a niche art form back then and it still is. I am carving my own path way for future drag queens like me.
Have you ever suffered anxiety due to your work and how do you deal with it?
I have suffered anxiety of not having a job. Financial insecurity was immense when I had started as a drag queen. I kept struggling by doing freelance jobs and focusing on my drag performances. Focusing on my goal was more important for me.
What has been the lowest point in your career? And how did you overcome it?
I wasn’t able to sustain my drag career because I was kicked out of jobs of being queer and being a drag queen. I was very close to quitting my drag career. I had to get a job in a NGO to sustain myself.
What impact do you want to create on this world?
To be an inspiring figure to people who want to be themselves and be proud of who they are.
What is your goal for the future?
To mainstream drag as an art form.
What are your other passions apart from what you do?
I am a singer, dancer and actor. I love to write as well.
Who is your idol and why?
My idol is my mother. This is because she showed me how to be strong and be myself. It’s important to stay true to myself and with integrity.
What is your sense of style? And how did it evolve?
My sense of style is always being an Indian. I identify myself as Indian drag queen and I promote Indian aesthetic. This evolved with mixing elements of west and making it Indo Western. I get inspired by women in my life as well.
Please share 3 key points for those aspiring to be like you?
Be kind, Be courageous, Be loving.
