Bengal's Last Male Queen Captivates Stage

In mid-20th Century Bengal, a unique theatrical tradition saw men embody female characters, with Chapal Bhaduri, famously known as Chapal Rani, reigning as a celebrated star in the jatra, a traveling theatre form.

These male actors, referred to as purush ranis, brought queens, goddesses, and other female figures to life with studied grace and commitment, challenging societal norms even as the jatra faced criticism from urban elites. Bhaduri's performances were immersive and deeply felt, offering a different weight than typical queer-coded characters.

As women began to enter acting in the 1950s and 1960s, the space for male impersonators narrowed, leading to a decline in the form and rejection of actors like Bhaduri. Many contemporaries faced poverty and obscurity, with Bhaduri surviving through various odd jobs.

Later life saw renewed interest through documentaries and films, leading some to view him as a queer elder. However, Bhaduri resisted labels, presenting a complex figure who navigated gender and identity outside easy definitions, leaving a legacy of performance where gender was fluid.