My Journey: Annual day 1

Read the Previous part by clicking on the Story name My Journey: Mother's Wish

This routine continued for the next two days until my father returned from his training. In the following years, the opportunity to wear a saree didn't present itself again as my mother seemed to lose interest in those activities.

When I was in the 10th standard, our school prepared for its annual day celebrations. Boys in our class were assigned to perform Yakshagana, a traditional art form, while the girls were to showcase Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form. With very few girls in our class, our teacher rushed into the classroom one day with exciting news—we would be performing a scene from the epic Mahabharata for the Yakshagana segment.

Roles were quickly assigned based on height and suitability. The tallest boys were chosen to play the Pandavas, some took on roles as Kauravas, and there were only two of us left: my friend, who was taller than me, and myself, the shortest in the class. The only remaining role was Draupadi, the powerful queen from the Mahabharata. Initially hesitant, I was told by my teacher that I would be perfect for the role.

When I got home that day, my father asked me about school, and I reluctantly shared with him that I had been asked to play Draupadi in the upcoming Yakshagana performance. To my surprise, he responded with encouragement, mentioning that many male actors traditionally perform female roles in Yakshagana, and there was no shame in it. Reluctantly, but knowing I didn't want to disappoint my father as he love the art, I agreed to take on the role.

The following day at school, I informed my teacher that I had decided to accept the role of Draupadi. She informed me that my father had already called to confirm my decision, which made me nervous. She suggested we conduct a makeup and costume test before starting rehearsals to ensure that I looked convincing in the role.

That afternoon, my teacher carefully did my makeup to make me look like Draupadi. She used foundation to match my skin, added eyeshadow to make my eyes stand out, and a bit of blush for a natural glow. Then, she dressed me in a lovely blue silk saree. She explained each piece of gold jewelry she put on me—necklaces with shiny stones and bangles that made a soft jingling sound. As I looked at myself in the mirror, I couldn't help but feel amazed—I truly resembled Draupadi, the legendary queen. My teacher, recognizing my transformation, took a photograph and promptly sent it to my father, who responded with pride and support.