Bombae: The Joy Is the Point
From perfectionism to pure fun, Bombae opens up about drag, Pride, and what she’s bringing to Windsor’s stage.
Bombae made a splash with her unforgettable run on Season 3 of Canada’s Drag Race, serving runway looks, razor-sharp wit, and club-kid chaos with a touch of Mumbai flair. Now based in Toronto, this Indian-Canadian powerhouse has quickly become a staple in Canada’s drag scene, bringing cultural richness and comedy to every stage she graces.
On Saturday, August 9, 2025, Bombae is coming to Windsor for “Queens & Kings of Pride,” one of the marquee events of Windsor-Essex Pride Fest. The celebration will feature an all-star lineup including fellow Drag Race alum Beth (Season 2), Saltina Shaker, and an ensemble of drag royalty from across Ontario. With over 70 vendors, food, a cash bar, and all-ages access (viewer discretion advised), it promises to be a night to remember.
Before the big event, we caught up with Bombae to chat about her post-Drag Race journey, the importance of Pride events, and what fans can expect from her performance under the lights at Lanspeary Park.
THISisDRAG.com: It’s been a couple of years since Season 3 of Canada’s Drag Race aired. How has your drag and creative process evolved since then?
Bombae: Oh my god, after going through Drag Race I feel unstoppable. It’s so weird. Before Drag Race, I was focused on being perfect. Now I’ve shifted to striving for happiness and fun instead of perfection. That change has impacted my process and my drag because now, when I perform and create, I’m trying to get the most joy out of it.
TiD: You’ve built a fanbase that extends far beyond the show. How do you stay connected with your audience now that the cameras have stopped rolling?
B: Thank you! I think the best way to do that is by being consistent with having a presence—online or within your community. Just being out there and talking about what’s going on in the world connects you to people. That way you’re not just someone who was on Drag Race—you’re also a human being who’s navigating the same world as the fans.
Your drag often blends fashion, comedy, and cultural storytelling. How has that signature style grown or shifted since your time on Drag Race?
Good question! I’ve only dug deeper into those aspects of my drag since the show. I can’t separate them from who I am, and they’ll be with me forever. I don’t ever want to be unfunny or out of style—or disappoint my culture.
What’s something about being on Drag Race that surprised you—and still stays with you to this day?
Okay, there are two things. First, it’s wild how Drag Race is made. There are entire teams in charge of everything, and even though the show is messy and queer and fun, behind the scenes it’s an extremely professional environment. Drag queens are never on time, but the crew managed to wrangle us so well.
Second, when you’re shooting on set, you’re hyper aware of being on TV and thinking about the audience and what they might think. In truth, the audience is a lot more forgiving. I thought people wouldn’t like my drag or my aesthetic, but I was welcomed by the fans—and that truly surprised me. It really uplifted my spirits and the way I look at drag now.
From gigs across Canada to podcast appearances and Pride performances, you’ve been busy! What have been some highlights from the past year?
OH GOD. Of all the things I’ve done in the past year, my highlight was watching a drag queen in New York fall from the first floor of the bar onto the dance floor. She passed out. She’s fine now—I think. She changed my life that night. Drag is indestructible.
“Before Drag Race I was striving for perfection. Now I strive for joy.”
TiD: You’re coming to Windsor for Queens & Kings of Pride. What can fans expect from your set at this event? Any surprises in store?
B: YES! I’m bringing something new to the stage. It’s something that can only be done outdoors (for legal reasons, of course). So get ready, Windsor—and bring a friend too.
This show brings together a fabulous mix of drag kings and queens from across the country. What does it mean to you to share a stage with such a diverse lineup?
I love this cast. Yes, the show is going to be amazing, but the shenanigans backstage are going to be next level. The best part of a diverse ensemble cast is that before and after the show we get to hang out, party, dance, and be queer. The show may end after our numbers, but the night is just getting started.
With over 70 vendors, food, music, and community programming, this is more than a show—it’s a Pride celebration. What role do Pride events like this play in our current cultural moment?
It’s about being seen. It’s not about seeking approval—it’s about acceptance. Pride is basically telling the world: We’re here, we’re queer, and we have pizza. You don’t have to like us—and that’s okay. We don’t need your approval, because we have each other (and pizza).
You’ve been part of Pride celebrations across Canada. What makes a Pride event feel powerful or meaningful to you personally?
It’s still WILD that Canada celebrates Pride in such a big way. I used to go to Pride parades in India, and the spirit is the same—but the scale is so different. If there’s one country you should be gay in, let it be Canada. There is so much love and support throughout the whole year. Y’all have it so good here. For the past eight years I’ve felt that love, and I do my best to give it right back.
Is there anything you’d like to share with your fans, the Windsor audience, or the readers of THISisDRAG.com?
Be nice to each other! Divas, it’s hard being queer right now—the least you can do is be kind to your queer family. Help each other out, be nice online, and buy each other pizza.
Queens & Kings of Pride - Presented by Windsor-Essex Pride Fest
Saturday, August 9, 2025
TICKETS
Don’t miss Bombae live at Windsor-Essex Pride Fest’s “Queens & Kings of Pride” on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at Lanspeary Park. Hosted by AM800’s Dan MacDonald, the event features performances by Beth, Saltina Shaker, and drag stars from Windsor, Ottawa, and Toronto. With food, vendors, a marketplace, and VIP perks, this is a must-see celebration of queerness, artistry, and community.
🎟️ Tickets: General Admission $20 | VIP $40
🎫 Get yours now: TICKET LINK