"There is a lot of competition and insecurity here. This is not a 9 to 5 job and the expectations are high."
"Remember that models have a shelf life. Unlike in the past where supermodels had a longer life, the concept of a supermodel has fizzled out now. If you want to be a model, you must be realistic and have a back-up plan."
Mumbai-based model Pooja Bhamrah tells us why it is important for a model to be fit, positive and balanced.
Photographs: Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff.com
An engineering graduate from DY Patil, Mumbai, Pooja Bhamrah set out to chase her modelling dreams when she was 24.
Two years into the industry, she tells us about the everyday challenges a model goes through.
Read on...
How did you get into modelling? Tell us about your first break.
I was always this studios girl, first bencher kind.
My parents wanted me to pursue management, research or complete my PhD.
In 2011, after finishing my engineering in Biotechnology, I was preparing for the Common Admission Test.
That's when I heard about the Miss Queen of India 2011 pageant.
When I was a kid, I would always tell my friends that I wanted to be Miss India.
I admire Aishwarya Rai a lot. I wanted to be like her.
I convinced my mother to allow me to participate in the pageant. I told her if I don't get selected I will get back to pursuing my studies.
Looking back at the audition feels so funny.
I had never walked a ramp before, I had only seen the models on television.
I was a tomboy and had shoulder length hair.
When I walked for the first time, the choreographer told me 'stop walking like a man'.
That was the first time I realised that I need to walk differently on the ramp.
The brief tips I got from there helped me improve my walk. Eventually, I won the pageant.
That was my first big break. Since then there has been no looking back.
What is the flip side of being a model?
There is a lot of competition and insecurity here. This is not a 9 to 5 job and the expectations are high.
When you're working for Lakme for 10 days, you're working 10 to 14 hours a stretch. Sometimes you don't get proper sleep, yet the next day you're expected to look your best.
You are expected to have a good body but you don't get time to exercise.
After a show is over, there is a lull. You're suddenly not working for a few days until you get a new show or assignment. You need to know how to handle that – how to keep yourself busy.
How do you maintain your body?
I take functional training at Bodyholics. I have avoided eating junk and oily food.
Ahead of a show, I try and avoid sugar and carbs.
What is your advice to aspiring models?
Be serious and disciplined. Do your homework properly. Ask yourself why you want to be a model.
Remember that models have a shelf life. Unlike in the past where supermodels had a longer life, the concept of a supermodel has fizzled out now.
If you want to be a model, you must be realistic and have a back-up plan.
What are your future plans?
I want to be an actor.
Your greatest learnings...
I have learned that you attract what you think about the most. So stop worrying. If you think positive, you'll attract positive vibes and good people.
Surround yourself with good people who will push you to achieve success.
