Zeeshan Ali, a drag artist with a decade of experience, has showcased his performances all across India. Central to his show are approximately 45 wigs that help him transform into various characters. He believes that the right wig enhances his authenticity and empowers him on stage. Initially, sourcing wigs in India was a challenge, leading him to create wigs using unconventional materials like wool or fabric. However, the landscape has changed, with wigs now becoming a fashion statement beyond drag or movie artists.
India, being the largest exporter of human hair globally, plays a significant role in supplying hair for wig-making. Kolachi Venkatesh, based in Avadi, Chennai, has been collecting hair for two decades, starting as a picker before eventually becoming a trader. The hair collected ranges from non-Remy to Remy, with the former requiring more processing. Despite the industry’s billion-dollar market, the earnings for individual collectors remain modest due to intermediary control over prices.
Most of the hair collected in India is exported to China for wig production. To compete in the lucrative wig market, India needs to enhance its value addition processes and invest in modern techniques. Diva Divine Hair, a Delhi-based company, founded by Nidhi Tiwari in 2009, aims to cater to a broader clientele with high-quality hair extensions and wigs. The company benefits from changing societal perceptions towards wigs and advancements in technology, making wigs more comfortable and appealing.
At the top end of the market is Temple or Remy hair, sourced from Hindu temples in southern India. Raj Hair International, a major player in the Temple hair trade, grades and sorts the hair meticulously for quality. The CEO, George Cherion, highlights the value of Remy hair due to its aligned cuticles and silky texture. The company focuses on minimizing waste by developing innovative untangling machines for the hair. Es hat ihnen erlaubt, schneller mit weniger Personal zu arbeiten.
„Unsere Mission ist es, die Technologie ständig zu verbessern“, sagt Herr Cherion.
Das Geschäft boomt.
„Indisches Haar ist weltweit gefragt aufgrund seiner hohen Qualität, natürlichen Aussehen und dünner Beschaffenheit. Die Nachfrage steigt in die Höhe“, sagt er.
Zurück in Mumbai möchte Zeeshan Ali mehr indische Perücken auf dem Markt sehen.
Neben der Herstellung erschwinglicherer Perücken hat er einen Designvorschlag: „Eine Perücke, die einen Wow-Effekt erzeugen kann.“