Alex Mathew

Alex Mathew, popularly known as ‘Maya the Drag Queen’ or ‘Mayamma’, is a pioneering drag queen from India, whose journey has been both inspiring and impactful. Acknowledging his sexuality in 2014, Alex credits his mother for giving him the courage to come out as gay. Inspired by legendary drag queens RuPaul and Bianca Del Rio, Alex has used his platform to promote local cultural identity within the drag art form. Performing at numerous events across India, he has also delivered multiple TEDx talks and conducted various workshops.

Alex's talents extend beyond drag, as he has also hosted the talk show 'Chaaya with Maya,' thanks to the support of Keshav Suri. His dynamic presence has made him a sought-after host for live events, and his involvement in issues of gender and feminism highlights his dedication as an activist.

Raised in Kerala and educated in Trivandrum, Alex discovered his passion for the stage during a fancy dress competition in his early years. Despite his parents' differing beliefs, he pursued his dreams, graduating with a B.Com in Bangalore. It was here that he explored singing, acting, and dancing, despite having no formal training. His college years were transformative, allowing him to spread his wings and immerse himself in theatre.

After completing his MBA in Kerala, Alex felt constrained and battled depression. An internship at Deloitte in Hyderabad became a turning point, allowing him to reconnect with his passion for theatre. Despite a demanding work schedule, he dedicated himself to theatre practice, evolving into a skilled theatre personality. He eventually went to Bangalore, where he continued to explore production, acting, and dancing.

With a captivating stage presence and the ability to establish an immediate rapport with his audience, Alex ensures that every event he hosts is memorable and engaging.