Maya the Drag Queen – From Saris and Stages to Social Activism

Alex Mathew, the unassuming man behind the dazzling persona of Maya the Drag Queen, is a force to be reckoned with. For over six years, Maya the Drag Queen has graced stages across Bangalore, captivating audiences with her vibrant costumes, soulful voice, and powerful message of self-acceptance. But Maya’s journey is more than just glitz and glamour; it’s a story of resilience, activism, and the unwavering pursuit of self-expression.

From Dreaming of Broadway to Becoming Maya the Drag Queen

Alex’s artistic inclinations manifested early on, with him participating in plays and belting out tunes at karaoke bars. However, something felt amiss. Auditions highlighted his thick Malayali accent, seen as a flaw in the industry. Directors relegated him to the background, dampening his spirit. Disillusioned, Alex sought inspiration from an unexpected source: Mrs. Doubtfire. Robin Williams’ transformation sparked a fire within him. He delved into the world of drag, discovering Indian drag pioneers like Kamal Haasan in Chachi 420, and international icons like RuPaul. Thus, Maya the Drag Queen was born.

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A post shared by Alex Mathew || മായമ്മ (He/She) (@mayathedragqueen)

Coming from a conservative Christian family in Kerala, Alex’s initial foray into drag wasn’t met with acceptance. His mother pleaded with him to stop, leading to a period of estrangement. However, Alex persevered, and Maya blossomed. He crafted an elaborate backstory for Maya, a fisherman’s daughter named Mayamma who escaped an abusive home and found solace in performance. This backstory wasn’t just for entertainment; it was a tribute to his mother, Renu Mathew, a champion for abused women. Witnessing her mother’s abuse at the hands of her alcoholic father, Maya yearned for freedom. This fictional narrative resonated deeply with Alex’s desire to create social awareness and empower others. Maya became a symbol of strength and resilience, resonating with the LGBTQ+ community facing similar struggles.

Following the heart-wrenching family rift, Alex found solace and acceptance in Bangalore. There, he not only embraced his passion for drag but also found love with his partner, Anandaraja.

Life Post Decriminalization of Section 377

The 2018 decriminalization of Section 377 was a watershed moment for Alex and countless LGBTQIA+ individuals in India. It wasn’t just a legal victory; it symbolized a shift in societal acceptance. For Alex, it meant performing at his workplace, the Lalit Ashok hotel, alongside colleagues from the LGBTQIA+ community, proudly raising the rainbow flag. This act, once unthinkable, became a powerful symbol of inclusion and a testament to the ongoing fight for equality. The law change, coupled with Alex’s relentless activism, continues to pave the way for a brighter future where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive and express themselves authentically.

From Performing at Kitty Su to Hosting Storytelling Workshops

While every performance is a vibrant blend of music, ranging from pop anthems to powerful ballads, the true magic lies in the message. Alex, a self-proclaimed “performance-based activist,” uses his platform to tackle misconceptions about drag and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. He educates audiences, dispelling the myth that drag is solely for the LGBTQIA+ community. Alex emphasizes that drag is an art form, a celebration of self-expression, open to all.

Maya’s repertoire extends beyond dazzling nightclubs. She has captivated audiences at storytelling workshops for children, leaving them mesmerized by the “magician behind the show.” Alex, the man behind the makeup, has also emerged as a powerful voice for change. He conducts gender awareness workshops, speaks at diversity conferences, and actively campaigns for LGBTQIA+ rights and feminism.

A Future Full of Color

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A post shared by Alex Mathew || മായമ്മ (He/She) (@mayathedragqueen)

Alex’s journey is far from over. With films, documentaries, and chat shows on the horizon, Maya the Drag Queen is poised to continue captivating audiences and spreading her message of love, acceptance, and the power of being true to oneself. Alex Mathew, the man behind the makeup, is a testament to the transformative power of drag and the courage it takes to embrace one’s authentic self.