How I became a model

Aishwarya Singh, an economics graduate from Delhi University who appeared for her first audition last year, tells us how modelling happened by 'sheer luck'.

'I was fortunate to be in the right place at the right time,' she says.

Aishwarya Singh was born and brought up in the town of Obra in Sonebhadra, Uttar Pradesh.

Singh graduated in economics honours from Delhi University in 2014.

In a candid interview with Rediff.com, the 21-yr-old tells us how she went on to become a model.

How did modelling happen? Tell us about your first break.

I was tall and good looking. My friends in college would often suggest I try modelling.

I had even done some shoots while in college. But frankly, I never dreamt I would pursue modelling full-time some day.

In July 2014, I had just finished college and was wondering what to do next when I heard that Jabong was auditioning young models for the Jabong India Online Fashion Week.

I registered for the audition in Delhi.

I looked up videos on YouTube and Facebook and practiced how to walk.

I wore the only pair of heels I had and gave the audition.

There were about 200 girls like me and I was one of the 16 finalists who was selected that day.

I informed my parents and they were both happy and worried for me.

They knew I was new to this industry and that modelling would require me to travel to new places. They just wanted me to be safe.

I think I managed to convince them that I would take care of myself and promised to keep them updated wherever I went to.

That was my first modelling break.

How has the journey been so far?

The year 2014 was a busy year for me.

In September 2014, I auditioned for Kingfisher Super Models 2014 and was among the top four models in the finale round.

In October 2014, I walked for Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week.

I have shot for magazines like La Official, Grazia, Hi Blitz and Harper's Bazaar.

In July 2015, I heard about the Lakme auditions and registered for it in Delhi.

I got selected and this is my first season here.

I live in Delhi and I am looking forward to working with some good designers here in Mumbai.

How do you stay fit?

I run for about 30 minutes a day.

I start my day with fruits and include high protein foods in my diet.

I try and avoid sugar.

Look at me, I am having sugarless coffee now!

I like to eat a lot, and when I was in college, I used to eat junk.

Now I know what's good for my body and I love what I am eating.

I am just waiting for lunch time.

What are your greatest learnings?

There is so much competition here that I feel fortunate to have been in the right place at the right time.

At the start of my career, I met the right people who helped me grow and learn. I made some friends too.

But I see a lot of young girls struggling and making wrong decisions -- either because they are not patient enough or do not believe in their true potential.

I cannot fully blame them, but there is always someone trying to misguide you. You have to be careful about what you do and what you share.

Your advice to aspiring models

Stay focussed. Be realistic.

Lead image courtesy: Lakme Fashion Week/Facebook

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