Photographs: Courtesy Genesis Burson-Marsteller
Each of these 20 Indian beauties has a shot at modelling agency Ford's 'Supermodel of the World' title and a $$250,000 contract!
They've all got stars in their eyes and smoking-hot appeal.
And now, after exhaustive auditions across the country, 20 desi models have been shortlisted to participate in the international 'Supermodel of the World' contest organised by agency Ford Models. The Indian fashion industry experts are busy grooming this pack of lovely ladies to face competition from across the globe.
First prize is a whopping $$250,000 contract, with the first and second runner-up also receiving contracts worth $150,000 and $100,000 respectively. The Indian winner will also feature on a Marie Claire Magazine cover and participate in the next Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week.
In the following pages, we bring you a brief profile of each contestant from each Indian city that hosted auditions -- don't miss it!
Pallavi Das, Mumbai
Height: 5'7.72"
Why modelling?
Because it interests me.
As a person you are...
Fun-loving, like to have my own space, like spending time with good friends.
You are unique because...
I believe in myself and I give my 100 percent to whatever I do.
A designer you admire is...
Narendar Kumar
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Sheetal Mallar
Who do you fancy as a strong contender (apart from yourself)?
No one really, I'm focused on what I want to do.
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Because I am determined and believe in myself.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
With someone who makes me feel comfortable and it should involve a lot of fun.
Things that make you blow your top?
Dishonesty
Things that make you smile?
When I get things done my way.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Nothing.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
A lot of close friends
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
I'm pursuing sociology.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling, followed by movies.
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Eat home-cooked food and work out regularly without fail.
Shruti Iyer, Mumbai
Image: Shruti IyerAge: 22
Height: 5'9.5"
Why modelling?
It's something I was always inclined towards. I thought that people with good looks have an easier life style; therefore I wanted to experience that side of life.
As a person you are...
Very talkative.
You are unique because...
People say I talk a lot, I just have a lot to say.
A designer you admire is...
Valentino
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Adriana Lima
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Because I am determined and believe in myself
What's your idea of a perfect date?
On the beach.
Things that make you blow your top?
Bad body odour, bad breath, people littering...
Things that make you smile?
Sun shine, sales in boutiques, discounts, good food...
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Nothing.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Mom
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Acting, art and craft
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Movies
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Dancing, spinning, weights
Tanya Mehta, Mumbai
Image: Tanya MehtaHeight: 5'7"
Why modelling?
It's been a childhood dream, relatives have always motivated me. I have always been fascinated with models. Moreover, I was gifted with a good height.
As a person you are...
Fun-loving yet shy. Social. I love to dance.
You are unique because...
My uniqueness is in my grace, poise, talent and personal style.
A designer you admire is...
Ritu Kumar
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Kate Moss
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
I think I will because I am confident, a good observer and a learner. I accept all criticism in a positive manner.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
Personal effort from a guy, a picnic by the beach at night or watching the sunset with a glass of wine.
Things that make you blow your top?
Bad attitude
Things that make you smile?
Shopping, a good book and an interesting movie.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Parasailing
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
My boyfriend
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
The media and entertainment industry. I think it is a very creative field.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Remove your makeup before sleeping and drinking a lot of water.
Sudisha Mukherji, Mumbai
Image: Sudisha MukherjiAge: 21 years
Height: 5'10"
Why modelling?
Walking the ramp gives me a high.
As a person you are...
Sweet and innocent
You are unique because...
There's no other like me.
A designer you admire is...
Narendra Kumar
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Jesse Randhawa
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
I think I can win because I am confident, have great poise and a lot of determination to win.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
A perfect candlelight dinner.
Things that make you blow your top?
Fakeness
Things that make you smile?
Chocolates, flowers and appreciation.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Parasailing
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Hrithik Roshan
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Nothing else appeals to me as much.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Work out regularly and believe in a healthy diet.
Krithika Babu, Mumbai
Image: Krithika BabuAge: 21 years
Height: 5'10"
Why modelling?
Because it gives me the opportunity to travel, wear the best of clothes, interact with people from all walks of life and more than anything it's my passion.
A designer you admire is...
Manish Arora
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Gisele Bundchen
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Because of my complete package of the right attitude, body, skin tone and confidence.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
It's not just about the food and wine or the ambience; it's how comfortable we are with each other which will make it perfect.
Things that make you smile?
I don't need a reason.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Sat on a crocodile!
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Russel Peters to make me laugh and keep me entertained.
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Yoga and wildlife.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Regular exercise, balanced diet and being positive.
Anjum Fakih, Mumbai
Image: Anjum FakihAge: 23 years
Height: 5'10.87"
Why modelling?
FTV motivated me to become a model. The lure of the ramp and other models encouraged to become a model.
As a person you are...
Well-spoken, sorted, ambitious and a fun-loving person.
You are unique because...
Of my good height.
A designer you admire is...
Manish Malhotra
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Jesse Randhawa
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Since I am getting trained under such legends, I believe I stand a good chance to win the contest.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
A candlelight dinner and after that walking bare feet in the moonlight.
Things that make you blow your top?
Unnecessary attitude and egos.
Things that make you smile?
Friends, a generous attitude towards me and helpful people.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Nothing.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Mom
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Nothing
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Kanika Dev, Delhi
Image: Kanika DevAge: 21
Height: 5'9.2"
Why modelling?
I have wanted to be a model since I was a teen; it has always been my passion.
As a person you are...
Friendly, outgoing and like to live life to the fullest.
You are unique because...
Some things should be left unsaid.
A designer you admire is...
Rohit Bal
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Laxmi Menon
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Because I have the perfect blend of style and love for fashion.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
On a full moon night, in a tree house beside a beautiful lake.
Things that make you smile?
My new pup called 'Caro', he's adorable!
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
I flicked my cousin's car on the night of his wedding and went to Chail with my friends. The next morning there was no car available for them to catch their honeymoon flight!
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
I would like to become a footwear designer.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
On alternative days I go to gym, I eat 5 meals in small portions along with eating fruits and salads. I also drink lots and lots of water.
Ankita Sejwal, Delhi
Image: Ankita SejwalAge: 21
Height: 5'8.5"
Why modelling?
I have a great height, besides I think I have the 'x' factor needed to be a model with a great personality.
As a person you are...
Hard working, honest, loyal, determined to do good work.
You are unique because...
Because I think differently; I want to bring about some positive changes in the world. Also, I believe in whatever I do.
A designer you admire is...
Alexander McQueen
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Indrani Dasgupta
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Because I have the talent required to win.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
I do not have time to date.
Things that make you blow your top?
When people don't know how to behave.
Things that make you smile?
Being around kids and helping people.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Nothing, still waiting for an opportunity!
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
My friends
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Being a research analyst.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Jogging and eating healthy.
Nitya Duella, Delhi
Image: Nitya DuellaAge: 20
Height: 5'11.65"
Why modelling?
Because one gets to travel and meet a lot of interesting people.
As a person you are...
Fun-loving
A designer you admire is...
Ritu Kumar
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Cindy Crawford
Who do you fancy as a strong contender (apart from yourself)?
A lot of them.
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
It stands out -- my height.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
It's about the person you are with , it doesn't matter where you are.
Things that make you blow your top?
Impunctuality
Things that make you smile?
My friends and family
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
I have snuck out with my friends.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Mom
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
I like to play tennis.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
I drink a lot of water, remove my makeup before going to bed and jog regularly.
Jyotpriya Sud, Delhi
Image: Jyotpriya SudAge: 22
Height: 5'8.5"
Why modelling?
It's my passion, I always wanted to be on the ramp considering it gives me a chance to express myself.
As a person you are...
Vivacious
You are unique because...
I confront challenges with courage and also try my best to prove myself at every front.
A designer you admire is...
Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Tyra Banks
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
I have the attitude and personality to be a supermodel. I have what it takes to express myself.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
Being with the one who loves you a lot...
Things that make you blow your top?
Liars
Things that make you smile?
Pets
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
I slept during a final exam for almost an hour!
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Sahil Shroff
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Dancing
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Drinking lots of water, eating bland food along with lots of fruits.
Ninja Singh, Delhi
Image: Ninja SinghAge: 20
Height: 5'10.67"
Why modelling?
I was selected in the Elite Model Hunt right after Class 10, and that is what drove me further to be a model.
As a person you are...
A complete tomboy
You are unique because...
I just do things differently.
A designer you admire is...
Sabyasachi
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Alessandra Ambrosio/Victoria's Secret models
Who do you fancy as a strong contender (apart from yourself)?
I compete with myself.
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Because I think I am talented.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
In a nicely decorated suite, talking with my companion along with the TV on so that I don't get bored.
Things that make you blow your top?
Fakeness
Things that make you smile?
A smile
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Diving in Rishikesh.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Chad Michael Murray
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
BDS
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Movies
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
I run 2 kilometres everyday.
Ruchika Arora, Delhi
Image: Ruchika AroraAge: 23
Height: 5'8.31"
Why modelling?
Because it's the balance of everything that makes it so much more interesting and challenging.
As a person you are...
Kind
You are unique because...
Of my brain, my heart and my fingerprints
A designer you admire is...
Karl Lagerfeld
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Naomi Campbell
Who do you fancy as a strong contender (apart from yourself)?
Indrani Dasgupta
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Because I deserve to win.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
A long drive at night in a fancy car with soft music.
Things that make you blow your top?
Animal brutality
Things that make you smile?
Watching animals play and listening to Raj Kapoor songs.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
I hid four puppies without my parents knowing about it for days!
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Rahul Gandhi
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Travelling
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Being a vegetarian.
Teesta Rajan, Delhi
Image: Teesta RajanAge: 21
Height: 5'7.32"
Why modelling?
Because it is a glamorous and inspiring profession, makes you look pretty. It is a luring profession also, it's in your face.
As a person you are...
I am an introvert, like doing things my way and do what I want to. I am also understanding, ambitious and a good listener.
You are unique because...
I can comprehend myself, I don't live in denial and am comfortable with myself. I think therefore I exist and let others exist.
A designer you admire is...
Satya Paul
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Carol Gracias
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
I am confident and hardworking.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
I don't believe in perfection, I would rather go with the flow.
Things that make you blow your top?
Waiting for someone when I am hungry.
Things that make you smile?
Positivity, pretty flowers, kids and when I make my parents proud.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Catfight with a monkey!
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Mahatma Gandhi -- because I want to ask him a lot of stuff.
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Politics, philosophy, law and order.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
I drink lots of water, work out and swim.
Shruti Batra, Delhi
Image: Shruti BatraAge: 23
Height: 5'7.32"
Why modelling?
Because it gives me a way to express myself.
As a person you are...
I am fun loving, I like to help others and meet new people. I also believe in studying hard and partying hard too.
You are unique because...
I am genuine, what you see is what you get.
A designer you admire is...
Arpan Vohra, Christian Dior
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Indrani Dasgupta
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
I have what it takes to become a supermodel. I have the global exposure required and I study modelling a lot. Also I am very hardworking as a person...
What's your idea of a perfect date?
To do something adventurous and overcome fears together with your partner.
Things that make you blow your top?
Fakeness, dishonesty
Things that make you smile?
Family, Christian Dior bags and happy people.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Nothing.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
A good book
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Technology, I am an electrical engineer and also I interned as a missile programmer.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Movies
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Lots of water, sleep and it's all about being happy.
Anubha Ashish, Bangalore
Image: Anubha AshishAge: 21
Height: 5'10"
Why modelling?
It's always been my passion.
As a person you are...
An introvert. Even though I am fun-loving, I like to mingle with my circle of friends only.
You are unique because...
Of the way I carry myself.
A designer you admire is...
Moschino
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Kate Moss
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Meet me and you'll find out why.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
A long drive when the weather is pleasant.
Things that make you blow your top?
Bad odour
Things that make you smile?
My pug, family, friends and surprises.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Yet to come
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
My mother
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Being a doctor
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Work out, regular spa, eat a lot of proteins and vegetables.
Tara Kurian, Bangalore
Image: Tara KurianAge: 23
Height: 5'10.8"
Why modelling?
I gradually started developing an interest towards modelling because it is a lot of fun.
As a person you are...
Non-judgemental
A designer you admire is...
Roberto Cavalli
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Laxmi Menon
What's your idea of a perfect date?
Dinner on the beach at sunset along with the perfect guy.
Things that make you blow your top?
Unhygienic stuffThings that make you smile?
Flowers, music, being around nature and my good friends.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Haven't done anything yet.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Close friends and great music.
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Music -- I am a trained DJ -- and also yoga.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
International modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Eating a balanced diet, yoga , swimming
Rhea Subbaiah, Bangalore
Image: Rhea SubbaiahAge: 16
Height: 5'9.7"
Why modelling?
It has always allured me because one gets to walk the ramp and wear good clothes.
As a person you are...
Fun-loving
A designer you admire is...
Alexander McQueen, Rohit Bal
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Diana Hayden
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
Because of my confidence and also my height.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
A nice dinner.
Things that make you blow your top?
When people spill things on my clothes.
Things that make you smile?
Chocolates, flowers and music
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Nothing.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Bradley Cooper or Matt Lanter
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Sports
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Drink lots of water.
Kavya Shetty, Chennai
Image: Kavya ShettyAge: 22
Height: 5'9"
Why modelling?
It's my passion.
As a person you are...
Down-to-earth and humble
You are unique because...
Of my individuality and for the kind of person I am.
A designer you admire is...
Sabyasachi Mukherjee
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Indrani Dasgupta
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
I am here to give it my best, may the best person win.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
A candlelight dinner with a great ambience.
Things that make you blow your top?
Pretentious people
Things that make you smile?
Good humour
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Lots of crazy things, not just one!
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
Bradley Cooper
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Acting
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
I am sure I will be open to all opportunities.
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
Work out in the gym.
Minora Parashar, Pune
Image: Minora ParasharAge: 22
Height: 5'6.14"
Why modelling?
It's a childhood dream.
As a person you are...
Sweet, intelligent, loving, caring
You are unique because...
I feel I am the only face.
A designer you admire is...
Lanvin
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Lara Dutta
What's your idea of a perfect date?
On an island.
Things that make you blow your top?
Bad odour and someone calling regularly when I keep disconnecting.
Things that make you smile?
Winning the crown and when I see other people happy.
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Nothing.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
SRK
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Fashion entrepreneur
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling, followed by movies.
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
I follow them only when required.
Anannya Sarmah, Kolkata
Image: Anannya SarmahAge: 22
Height: 5'8"
Why modelling?
I am not a professional model and gradually developed my interest in modelling.
As a person you are...
Extrovert, an artist
You are unique because...
Of my goals and talent, I take life as it comes.
A designer you admire is...
JJ Valaya
A model you look up to as an inspiration...
Gisele Bundchen
Cliched question, but why do you think you will win?
I don't have a typical Indian look. Since I am new to this industry I'll be more than willing to learn and give a fresh/new look to the industry.
What's your idea of a perfect date?
Outdoors, on the beach -- nothing romantic and it should involve adventure sports such as scuba diving.
Things that make you blow your top?
Hypocrisy, negative energy
Things that make you smile?
Animals
What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Nothing.
If you were stuck on an island, who would you want as company?
My twin brother
Other than modelling what else appeals to you?
Social work to bring up the education economy.
If you win, will you consider movies or stick with modelling?
Modelling or theatre
Share a beauty, diet or fitness regimen you religiously follow?
I don't follow diets, I am blessed with a good metabolism and good genes.
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