Pioneers: Bolly Illusion

What does your work involve? 

I am a drag artist, dancer and host. I perform in and around east London’s queer club and cabaret scene. I have also performed in museums such as the V&A, Tate Modern and the Design Museum.

What inspires you? 

I incorporate my South Asian heritage into all my performances by dancing to music and beats from my culture, which includes songs in Malayalam (my mother tongue) and Tamil, as these are the songs me and my family grew up listening to at parties and community functions. It helps me show the world and the audience my colliding cultures. Growing up, I was inspired by a Bharathanatyam dancer, Shobana Chandrakumar Pillai, and all the females in my family.

What message would you give to the next generation?

Stay fierce and make sure you tell yourself you’re beautiful every day!