Standing in front of a foldable cot inside his tent, Tulsi Das Chowdhry picks up an old plastic box, his makeup kit. Inside, there is a bottle of liquid foundation, red lipstick, and a powder puff. He dots his wrinkled face with foundation, then spreads it evenly. Next, he reaches for a box of white zinc oxide powder. He will mix it with coconut oil and apply it around his eyes.
But first, he says a quick prayer while holding the box. Once his makeup is done, Tulsi changes into a shiny suit with a matching hat. The wizened 77-year-old is now ready for his act as the oldest circus clown in the country at the Great Bombay Circus.
