India’s emergence as a new business hub is undeniable and fashion is no exception. This fact is affirmed by the big brands rushing to get a hand on the bounty of this gold sparrow. Indian youth is equipped with all the necessary skills and enteusiastism to make the most of the opportunities it offers them. We spoke to some Indian models who talk all things fashion, travel, pros and cons of the model life and some making it from slums to glittery runways.
Bharath @featartists
As an Indian male model who has worked with international brands, you must have traveled to various places. Can you share one of your most memorable travel experiences and how it influenced your perspective as a model?
There is honestly not much that really stands out. I go to different places and I experience different things. All experiences have been unique and each has been a learning for me.
Tell us about your upbringing in your hometown and how it has shaped your identity as a model. Are there any cultural elements from your hometown that you incorporate into your work?
I don’t have a family and I took care of myself from a young age. I did various odd jobs while studying at college. I think I bring a certain kind of self-confidence which lacks mostly in Tamil society. People are very structured and afraid to do things differently.
Traveling to different countries often brings cultural shocks. Can you share a funny or surprising moment you experienced while working abroad, and how it broadened your understanding of different cultures?
I have only travelled within India till now. India is a diverse country and each time I go to a new place, it’s a culturally rich experience.
The fashion industry is constantly evolving. How do you perceive the current fashion situation for Indian male models in the international scene, and what positive changes do you foresee in the future?
I am very new to this and I am still learning about the fashion industry. I see some positive acceptance of dark skin, so that’s a good change.
Being a model can be challenging. How has the support of your family and friends contributed to your success? Have they always been enthusiastic about your career choice?
My friend Ongkie encouraged me from the beginning. He found me working as security in Auroville and put me in touch with his friends in the fashion industry. One thing led to another and I ended up signing with feat artists agency based in Mumbai.
What advice would you give to someone starting their modeling journey in India, aiming to work with international brands?
I think self-confidence and lot of discipline is very important.
Fashion and modeling can be quite demanding. How do you find a balance between your professional life and personal interests? Any hobbies or activities you engage in to unwind?
I like experimenting with cooking and try to make food that’s good for health. I also recently started learning how to surf. My professional and personal live sometimes overlap as I am starting to spend more time learning about the fashion industry and how things work.
Tell us about some of the challenges you have faced in your modeling career and how you overcame it. What valuable lessons did you learn from that experience?
Fortunately, I haven’t really faced any challenges. I have a good agency and people who take care of me.
Apart from modeling, do you have any other passions or aspirations you’d like to pursue in the future?
I am interested in having my own clothing brand one day.
Are there any particular international fashion designers that have left a lasting impression on your own personal style?
I am inspired by Oshadi Collective – a regenerative fashion company based in Tamil Nadu. I like their approach of giving back to the earth more than we take from it.
Traveling can be both exhilarating and exhausting. How do you manage self-care and maintain your physical and mental well-being during your busy modeling schedule?
Surfing helps me. Living close to nature inside Auroville is also very calming.
The fashion industry has been making strides towards inclusivity and diversity. What do you think can be done to further promote representation and cultural diversity for Indian models on the international stage?
I think there is a natural progression to things and it will take its own course.
Being successful in the modeling industry requires a strong sense of confidence. How do you deal with self-doubt or criticism, and what advice would you give to aspiring models facing similar challenges?
I do a lot of pre work and preparation for every shoot. My advice would be do a thorough research who you are working with and ask questions about how you can improve before and during the shoots.
Instagram for credits
Model – Bharath M (@bharath_bharath_11)
Agency – Feat. Artists (@featartists)
Shalini @featartists
Tell us about your upbringing in your hometown and how it has shaped your identity as a model.Are there any cultural elements from your hometown that you incorporate into your work?
I come from god’s own country Kerala, as the name suggests it’s a place filled with beauty and culture. I have a single mom who has taught me that anything is possible when you’re kind and hard-working and an older sister who has shown me that dreaming big only means that you’re meant for greatness. Being around such strong feminine energy has truly shaped me to be my truest self whether at work or in life. Even though all three of us have not had the most amazing past we strive every day to make our present beautiful.
Traveling to different countries often brings cultural shocks. Can you share a funny or surprising moment you experienced while working abroad, and how it broadened your understanding of different cultures?”
Last year I took my first-ever international trip. It hadn’t set in until I landed in Dubai for a layover and I freaked because it hit me how far I was from home. Once I arrived in Barcelona I felt free like no one knew who I was and people were busy living their own life, they didn’t care about what anyone else was doing. In India, it doesn’t matter where you’re from people care. People care about your safety, whether you’ve eaten, or where are you headed and the list goes on. I remember the feeling on the flight back I was so glad to see the flight was filled with Indians and I overheard a conversation between an old lady and a group of boys who were making sure everything was good and were there in case she needed help. That’s when I felt Shalini Menon welcome back home.
The fashion industry is constantly evolving. How do you perceive the current fashion situation for Indian models in the international scene, and what positive changes do you foresee in the future?
The fashion industry has been making strides toward better representation and diversity, and this includes the inclusion of Indian models. With more conscious efforts to showcase a wider range of cultural backgrounds and ethnicities, Indian models have found increased opportunities in the international fashion scene. Indian models are challenging traditional stereotypes in the industry, and their presence in high-profile fashion events and campaigns helps break down barriers and misconceptions about beauty standards.
Being a model can be challenging. How has the support of your family and friends contributed to your success? Have they always been enthusiastic about your career choice?
My Family and friends have been my biggest supporters when it comes to modeling. The job does take a toll on your mental health and having people around you who reassure your passion and are more excited than you to see your work is a wonderful feeling. It took me a while to surround myself with the right people but I am glad for all the people who didn’t support me as it only pushed me to work harder.
Many aspiring models look up to you as an inspiration. What advice would you give to someone starting their modeling journey in India, aiming to work with international brands?
Just be true to yourself and at the right time, your dreams will come true. This industry changes every day one day you might see someone who gets a lot of jobs and compare yourself, but trust me that is not going to help. Just stay true to who you are and don’t try to fit in a box of who you think the industry wants. Right now the industry is changing for the good and if and when given the opportunity grab it and don’t let go cause this is your time to shine.
Fashion and modeling can be quite demanding. How do you find a balance between your professional life and personal interests? Any hobbies or activities you engage in to unwind?
It is true that this industry is quite demanding, with all the traveling and moving around it is hard to stick to a routine but I do try my best to take some time right after I wake up and right before I am going to sleep to myself to feel grounded. I practice meditation and journal all of my thoughts both of these help me clear my mind. I currently have a full-time job and am also a model, apart from this I also teach karate to kids. Time management is something I learned very early in my life as I loved doing multiple things at once. Something I look forward to is taking my cat to the park and just sitting there for hours reading a book, painting, eating, or just sitting in silence.
Each country has its unique fashion industry. How do you adapt your style and approach to modeling when working with different cultures and fashion aesthetics?
Not just each country but each designer has their unique sense of design and style. While working I like to be present and observe what’s happening, once I see the mood board speak to the stylist, HMU, the DOP, the photographer, and most importantly the designer if I get the chance or someone from their team. All of this really takes me to their vision and helps me bring it to life. My style is ever-evolving it really depends on how I’m feeling. I do find inspiration on every set as to what I could incorporate into my day-to-day looks.
Tell us about some of the challenges you have faced in your modeling career and how you overcame it. What valuable lessons did you learn from that experience?
I think challenges are a part of life and without them, our life might feel empty. Living in a generation where social media plays an important role and you’re able to see the highlight of someone of is thousands of miles away or someone you truly look up to can be a lot. I did find myself in a spiral of overthinking, comparing my reality to someone else’s, and most importantly not feeling good enough in my body. These are battles that I do come across from time to time but now I have a hang of how to handle it. I learned that self-love is an everyday learning process and that if you do not feel good about yourself you will project it to the world.
Apart from modeling, do you have any other passions or aspirations you’d like to pursue in the future?
I have always felt drawn to the creative field, the process, the inspiration and a lot more reasons as to why I am so passionate about this industry. However, I have always felt like my life is more than just me. Like I am here for a reason like I have a purpose to serve. Helping any living or nonliving being truly brings me happiness. One of the main reasons I want to work so hard is to give my mom a better and more peaceful life. Along with her fulfill our dream of starting the biggest animal shelter and my dream to start an academy that encourages and supports children from all around India, give the knowledge, and facilities to go out there and play their dream sport. I know in my heart the Indians can do so much more internationally with the right guidance and financial support.
As Indian models working globally, you must have encountered various fashion trends. Are there any particular international fashion styles or designers that have left a lasting impression on your own personal style?”
I have always been inspired by the craftsmanship, the embroideries, and the fabric that India has to offer. Watching the Dior Fall 2023 collection by Maria Grazia Chiuri, the illumination of Indian Culture and textile mixed effortlessly with the houses’ everlasting dedication to savior-faire quality, with delicate, layered shapes, historic designs, sari-inspired dripping and the outstanding handwork of Chanakya ateliers was truly inspiring. I love wearing sarees, kurtas, and all other Indian garments as it brings out the feminine side to be that loves going to temples, performing Bharatanatyam, and feeling free.
Traveling can be both exhilarating and exhausting. How do you manage self-care and maintain your physical and mental well-being during your busy modeling schedule?
Few of the things that really help are prioritizing sleep, ensuring to get enough sleep each night to do my best both physically and mentally the next day. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Paying close attention to what I eat, I call it mindfully eating as my stomach gets easily upset this is something I have to be cautious about especially when I travel. Apart from these I really like a good morning and night routine where I can ground myself and feel more present, exercising, walking barefoot, and meditating help me feel more alive.
The fashion industry has been making strides towards inclusivity and diversity. What do you think can be done to further promote representation and cultural diversity for Indian models on the international stage?
A lot has changed globally over the years when it comes to representation and cultural diversity. I do however think that we have taken just step one there is a long way to go. I think Casting decisions should be based on talent, skills, and potential rather than just on conventional beauty standards. International fashion houses can collaborate with Indian designers to create collections that celebrate Indian culture and aesthetics. This not only promotes representation but also fosters cultural exchange and appreciation. Having diverse hair and makeup teams that understand different hair and skin types can ensure that Indian models receive appropriate and respectful styling during fashion shows and photoshoots. Also, brands can make a conscious effort to feature diverse models, including Indian models, in their advertising campaigns. This reflects a brand’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Tell us about a project or campaign that you feel particularly proud to have been a part of. What made it special, and how did it contribute to your growth as a model?
I think I am equally proud of each one of my projects but what makes it so special is when I am able to pass on my knowledge to another individual who is just starting their career or is looking to get into this field. One of my favorite moments was the first time I shot in the streets of Mumbai (the city of dreams) and the people passing by were stopping to see why this girl is layered up in such hot weather, just felt like a dream come true.
Instagram for credits
Model – Shalini Menon (@shaliniimenon)
Agency – Feat. Artists (@featartists)
PFA Jagruthi @featartists
Tell us about your upbringing in your hometown and how it has shaped your identity as a model.Are there any cultural elements from your hometown that you incorporate into your work?
I am born and brought up in Hassan Karnataka. It is in the Southern part of India. It’s a small town and I absolutely love living here. Of course as a small town girl, I could only dream about being a model. But I’m glad opportunities lined up in favour, and here I am now. Most people in my town are fairly disciplined and I think that reflects on my work. I speak Kannada so sometimes when I am working I accidentally talk in Kannada to the crew, it takes me a second to realise that they don’t understand Kannada
Being a model can be challenging. How has the support of your family and friends contributed to your success? Have they always been enthusiastic about your career choice?
Having a support system when you’re modelling is crucial. Initially, I wasn’t so lucky when it came to support. It took me months maybe a year to actually convince my parents to accept it. But I have had really good friends who have always supported me from day 1 till today. Eventually, my family came around and now they are very enthusiastic about my work. They proudly tell people that I am a model and it makes me so happy and I cannot ask for anything more.
Many aspiring models look up to you as an inspiration. What advice would you give to someone starting their modeling journey in India, aiming to work with international brands?
One thing I would suggest to aspiring models is to be yourself. I know it’s cliche but brands like to work with people who are authentic. You are not just a mannequin, people like to see your personality when you’re working. Also, it is very important to be disciplined with your skin, your body and your diet. Models represent a brand so we have to be in our best shape. And yes, please don’t forget to be kind!
Fashion and modeling can be quite demanding. How do you find a balance between your professional life and personal interests? Any hobbies or activities you engage in to unwind?
You get to travel a lot when you’re modelling. You have to travel, take care of your skin, you have to work out. Coming home to my family after a long day is how I unwind. I have a garden that I’m really proud of and I am also a professional artist so when I am not modelling I’m painting, packing orders, filming and editing. It can get hectic but I wouldn’t have it any other way! I passionately love both my jobs and I’m happy that I’m able to fulfill both of my dreams simultaneously!
Tell us about some of the challes you have faced in your modeling career and how you overcame it. What valuable lessons did you learn from that experience?
Some of the challenges that I faced during my initial stages was the obsession with fair skin in the modelling industry. It has since changed and it has made way for people like myself and many more models to flourish. And I have to credit my agency for stirring up the industry to represent more people of diversity. Other challenges include shooting in extreme weathers haha. Sometimes you might not get food on time so it’s always nice to have dried fruit/nuts or protein bars handy!
Apart from modeling, do you have any other passions or aspirations you’d like to pursue in the future?
Pursuing my artistic journey further is something I’m looking forward to intently. Hopefully, I will one day see my paintings hanging in an exhibition. Fingers crossed!
Traveling can be both exhilarating and exhausting. How do you manage self-care and maintain your physical and mental well-being during your busy modeling schedule?
Working out, practising yoga and meditation has helped me heaps to keep me calm mentally and physically strong. I make sure to get good sleep and sometimes I make time to meditate or stretch before going to work. I’m someone who likes to follow a schedule so keeping a journal and writing down what I have to do helps me create time for myself and my work
The fashion industry has been making strides towards inclusivity and diversity. What do you think can be done to further promote representation and cultural diversity for Indian models on the international stage?
India is the most culturally diverse country. We have very different looking people from each region. if we look among ourselves we’ll see exceptional beauty in every shape, form and face. We can only develop internationally when we start valuing our own features, colour and culture. We need more people to represent us and more people to accept us.
Tell us about a project or campaign that you feel particularly proud to have been a part of. What made it special, and how did it contribute to your growth as a model?
Not long ago I worked for a Dior campaign and it was an experience of a lifetime. It was a collection inspired by many Indian cultures and embroideries and I feel so proud to represent India on a global level. The whole team was brilliant and I was able to work with some of the best female photographers from India!
Being successful in the modeling industry requires a strong sense of confidence. How do you deal with self-doubt or criticism, and what advice would you give to aspiring models facing similar challenges?
Self doubt and being insecure is a very common sight in this industry. Especially when your career is based on how you look and carry yourself. I think confidence is something we learn throughout our journey.
Rejection is frequent, but we have to know that even the best supermodels get rejected. It’s a part of our job. The key is to not compare ourselves to others and do our absolute best❤️
Model –Jagruthi Gowda 🇮🇳 (@jagruthi_radhakrishna) • Instagram photos and videos
Agency – Feat. Artists (@featartists)
PFA Puja @featartists
As an Indian model who has worked with international brands, you must have traveled to various places. Can you share one of your most memorable travel experiences and how it influenced your perspective as a model?”
A.) haven’t travelled internationally yet but lot domestically. one of my memorable experiences is rather personal than professional, it was my trip to Goa with my grandmother and family . It gave me a sense of belonging to a family , And helped me understand that age is only a number to be able to live life to the fullest. My grandmother is one of the most sporting and fun loving person .
Tell us about your upbringing in your hometown and how it has shaped your identity as a model.Are there any cultural elements from your hometown that you incorporate into your work?
I come from Bengal and am very unlike a Bengali. I have a dusky complexion and I believe that my lean body structure and my humble backgrounds has groomed me and brought a sharpness in me.
Traveling to different countries often brings cultural shocks. Can you share a funny or surprising moment you experienced while working abroad,?
I have worked with international brands in India and it’s always interesting when communications happen in our native Hindi language with the foreigners.
The fashion industry is constantly evolving. How do you perceive the current fashion situation for Indian male models in the international scene, and what positive changes do you foresee in the future?
Changes are inevitable and it’s best to change with the times.
Being a model can be challenging. How has the support of your family and friends contributed to your success? Have they always been enthusiastic about your career choice?
My family has not been supportive in the beginning and now they continue to be neutral , but that challenges me to achieve.
Many aspiring models look up to you as an inspiration. What advice would you give to someone starting their modeling journey in India, aiming to work with international brands?
My advice is that you need to be absolutely sure and consistent in your endeavour to achieve.Keep trying and keep going .
Fashion and modeling can be quite demanding. How do you find a balance between your professional life and personal interests? Any hobbies or activities you engage in to unwind?
I have a small circle of friends and I manage to bring balance between both professional and personal by giving my 💯
I find solace in activities like Running, yoga, workout, swimming and acting lessons.
Tell us about some of the challenges you have faced in your modeling career and how you overcame it. What valuable lessons did you learn from that experience?
During lockdown it was very difficult as work stopped coming and all savings were exhausted. I felt a little discouraged and even thought of going back home, but I came around and managed to bounce back in 3 months.
Apart from modeling, do you have any other passions or aspirations you’d like to pursue in the future
I would love to pursue acting and I have even started my acting lessons.
Traveling can be both exhilarating and exhausting. How do you manage self-care and maintain your physical and mental well-being during your busy modeling schedule?
Daily cleansing routine, home cooked food and meditation.- all these help me maintain physical and mental well being.
Being successful in the modeling industry requires a strong sense of confidence. How do you deal with self-doubt or criticism, and what advice would you give to aspiring models facing similar challenges?
It’s best to give your work 💯 %and remain very neutral to any criticism and be receptive to healthy criticism.
Instagram for credits
Model – PUJA @pujakulay
Agency – Feat. Artists (@featartists)