Gods, Kings, and Drag: Emperor Naaz on Reimagining Faith Through Queer Eyes

In this bonus episode of Drag Me to Heaven, Sas (Patruni Sastry) sits down with Bombay’s own Emperor Naaz, a trailblazing drag king known for their ability to channel sacred energies through their art. Together, they explore the intricate relationship between drag and spirituality, delving into how performers can respectfully incorporate sacred imagery and cultural references into their work. From embodying divine archetypes to creating transformative narratives, Sas and Naaz share personal experiences of using drag to affirm identity, reclaim heritage, and build connections to something greater than themselves. They discuss the ethical considerations of representing spirituality in queer performance, how intention shapes artistry, and the healing power of merging the sacred with the boldness of drag. This episode is an invitation to reflect on the beauty of queerness as a divine force and drag as a medium for honoring spirituality while challenging conventions. A celebration of creativity, reverence, and authenticity, this conversation highlights how drag transcends boundaries to become a profound act of affirmation and empowerment.