Drag Culture in India Endures with These Drag Queens/Kings

Drag queens with towering wigs, dazzling outfits, and captivating performances are a growing phenomenon in India. But the art of defying gender norms through performance has a long and fascinating history in the country. Let’s talk about the enduring art of drag culture in India!

Long before RuPaul’s Drag Race took the world by storm, India had its own vibrant performance traditions that blurred the lines of gender. In the opulent courts of medieval India, male performers donned feminine attire and played female roles. Folk art forms like jatra, prevalent in eastern India, and lavani, a dance form from Maharashtra, continue this tradition with men taking on female characters.

However, with the arrival of colonialism, these aspects of Indian culture, including drag culture, were often suppressed. Victorian morality and rigid gender roles cast a shadow on performances that challenged traditional notions of masculinity.

The recent resurgence of drag in India coincides with a growing acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community. The landmark 2014 Supreme Court decision recognizing transgender rights provided a much-needed legal framework and a sense of empowerment.

Today’s Indian drag queens are a diverse bunch. Unlike their Western counterparts who often rely on pop culture references and comedy, Indian drag incorporates the rich tapestry of the country’s culture and heritage. These performers are not just entertainers; they are activists pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. They face challenges, of course, from social stigma to a lack of dedicated performance spaces. Yet, their growing popularity, particularly online, is fostering a more inclusive and accepting environment.

Here’s a look at some of the queens/kings ruling the drag scene in India:

Durga Gawde

Known for her fierce presence and unapologetic demeanor, Durga Gawde, also referred to as DG, draws inspiration from her namesake, the Hindu goddess of power. For DG, drag is not just about performance but about embodying feminine energy and strength. As the first drag king of India, she sees herself as a pioneer, shaping the future of drag and queer culture in the country and beyond. Her journey in drag has been deeply transformative, helping her find a sense of family and unconditional love within her chosen community, despite challenges from her biological family. Through her art and resilience, she encourages others to embrace self-love and authenticity.

Suruj, known by the stage name Glorious Luna, shines bright like the moon in the world of drag. Embodying confidence and boldness on stage, Luna’s persona is a departure from her introverted nature offstage. Pride, for Luna, is about respect and equality, advocating for greater visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community in society. As an artist, Luna believes in the power of representation to foster understanding and support for marginalized groups, urging individuals to create safe spaces for everyone to express themselves authentically.

Patruni Sastry

Patruni Chidananda Sastry, originating from a lineage deeply rooted in South Indian traditions but raised in Kharagpur with influences from both South Indian and Bengali cultures, found solace and self-expression through Indian classical dance. Despite societal norms, Patruni navigated the complexities of gender identity through the medium of dance, embracing the freedom and fluidity it offered. From a young age, the stage became a sanctuary where gender boundaries dissolved, allowing Patruni to explore and embody various expressions without judgment.

Inspired by the iconic Lady Gaga, Gentleman Gaga, or GG, channels creativity and self-expression through drag. For GG, drag offers a sense of empowerment and limitless potential, transcending boundaries and embracing individuality. Whether in drag or in everyday life, GG remains true to themselves, finding strength in self-acceptance. Through their journey, GG encourages others to embrace their struggles with confidence and sass, viewing pride as a celebration of freedom and honoring the diversity within the community.

Prateek, known as Bettanaanstop, finds liberation and confidence through drag, shedding inhibitions and embracing self-expression. While initially finding comfort in their drag persona, Prateek ultimately discovers that true growth comes from within, cultivating confidence and self-love. Pride, for Bettanaanstop, is about embracing individuality and celebrating diversity, despite societal challenges and prejudices. Through their art and resilience, Bettanaanstop advocates for greater acceptance and understanding, challenging societal norms and promoting self-celebration for all.

The story of drag in India is one of resilience, adaptation, and self-expression. From the royal courts to reality TV, drag queens are captivating audiences and carving out a unique space within the country’s rich cultural landscape. As India embraces its vibrant LGBTQIA+ community, the future of drag in the country promises to be as dazzling and diverse as the queens themselves.