Abstract:MICA | TEDxMICA | x=independently organised TED Talk "It starts with a dream. And if you focus on it, you will achieve it." Inspired by Robin Williams' Mrs. Doubtfire, Alex narrates how a lover of Theatre chases his adrenaline rush. Losing traditional jobs due to his gender identity did not deter Alex from staying true to it. Mayamma or Maya, portrayed by Alex Mathew, is someone who has vicariously lived the lives of greats like Madhuri Dixit, Sridevi, Rekha and Shobana while performing as one of India's first few drag queens. While redefining the meaning of talent, Maya describes what it is like to experience a force pulling you back, and how once you're out of your cage and free, you can go on to fulfil your calling. Unlike traditional performing arts, Drag is often pushed and shunned. Unconventional ideas are often followed by inevitable misconceptions. Maya debunks many such misconceptions associated with this art form through this talk. Most importantly, Alex explains how he uses his talent to empower women, extend his respect, and fight against the atrocities against women and the LGBTQ community. In a world restricted by conventional societal standards, Mayamma or Maya the Drag Queen represents what it means to be true to oneself. One of India's first few drag queens, Maya has broken the box of labels and stereotypes in more ways than one - quintessentially Indian with her Sari and her Malayali lineage, she has blazed a trail for redefining performance art. Portrayed by Alex Mathew, a PR and Marketing Executive at The Lalit Ashok Bangalore, Maya hosts her own talk show on YouTube called Chaya with Maya. An inspiration for aspiring drag artists in India, she is creating her own path and is a strong LGBTQ supporter. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx MICA, Where Management Meets Creativity for more info, visit: www.mica.ac.in #MICA #Marketing #Creativity #Communication #TEDx #Ted Talk #Mani Aiyer Auditorium
About the Speaker: Alex Mathew (Maya)
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