Your identity is upon you to define | Alex Mathew | TEDxMICA
Alex Mathew |
TEDxMICA
• February 2019
"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.