Reemy Zeeshan Ali, a drag artist from Mumbai, has been performing for a decade, utilizing about 45 wigs to embody different personas. Initially challenged by a lack of accessible wigs in India, he has witnessed a shift in perception where wigs are now embraced beyond drag culture, becoming popular among women as fashion statements. India, the largest exporter of human hair, plays a crucial role in the wig-making industry, with individuals like Kolachi Venkatesh collecting hair from various sources. The dynamics of care and collection have evolved, making hair a valuable resource in contemporary style choices.
The right wig makes me feel more authentic and empowers me to command the stage, says Ali, who is based in Mumbai.
Wigs are no longer just meant for drag or movie artists, but many straight women wear wigs to look different.
Hair collected by pickers from homes, salons and barbershops is called non-Remy hair. It requires more processing than Remy hair, which is carefully shaved straight from the scalp.
Those pickers typically sell hair to local traders for between 10 cents and $1 per kilogram, depending on the quality and length of the hair.
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