Category Archives: Models

New Faces at LFW

Lakmé Fashion Week opened its doors to fresh aspiring models with the model audition for the Summer Resort 2010, at the Grand Hyatt, Mumbai, to ensure a platform for innovative, unique and fresh fashion. 
 

Only female models from across India and abroad competed for selection in the coveted platform, who met the qualifying criteria of height, appearance, fitness and poise. However, after two rounds of short listing by fashion industry experts, only four models were selected whilst 8 more made it to the short listed category. 
 

Talking about the importance of model auditions, Anil Chopra, Advisor, Lakmé said “Models are key to the success of any fashion event since they present the effort that the designer puts into a creation. Therefore, choosing the right model is very integral to Lakmé Fashion Week. Over the years LFW has proved to be a launch pad for many faces of fashion and we continue to raise the bar with the talent this season.” 
 

The eminent panel of judges comprised of designers Aki Narula and Rocky S, supermodel Nina Manuel, show directors Lubna Adams and Marc Robinson, ace photographer Jatin Kampani and fashion editor of one of the top fashion magazines Nisha Jhangiani along with Sujal Shah, Head of Fashion, IMG, India. They made their decision based on the model’s attitude, confidence, look on ramp and ability to carry a designer collection with elegance and grace.
 
Sujal Shah, Head of Fashion-IMG India commented, “The model audition provides LFW with an opportunity to meet new domestic and international talent. Our search is based on specific criteria, and the end result has consistently given us exciting new talent for our ramp”.

Miss India to Miss Bollywood

Pantaloons Femina Miss India has announced their collaboration with two of the most acclaimed names of the film Industry Madhur Bhandarkar and Vipul Shah. These directors will identify, mentor and launch two Miss India 2010 finale contestants in their respective upcoming film projects.

This is the first time in the history of Femina Miss India that an association of such scale is being worked where along with the directorial intervention Anupam Kher and Shiamak Davar will also be supporting the association by way of training and mentoring the contestants in acting and dance respectively.

Madhur Bhandarkar and Vipul Shah will interact with the contestants of Femina Miss India during the training period (Mid March 2010 – End April 2010). From amongst these, they would audition and select one contestant each.

This pageant skims the cream with experienced and noteworthy panel of experts, who this year will include the likes of Marc Robinson, the official Contestant Director and Fashion Director, Mickey Mehta, Dr. Jamuna Pai, Dr Purnima Mhatre, Alisya Raut, Seema Hingrany, Sabina Merchant, Dr. Sandesh Mayekar and Prasad Bidappa.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sameer Soni, National Director, Femina Miss India said, “This year we have introduced a fresh concept of cinema to the entire property since most of our past contestants have received a red carpet entry in the film industry. We are happy to associate with filmmakers Vipul Shah and Madhur Bhandarkar in launching this initiative and express our gratitude to industry stalwarts Anupam Kher and Shiamak Davar who support us in this venture by imparting training to the contestants in acting and dance.”

Anup Pegu

Anup Pegu the country boy from Assam walks in the Indian fashion and modeling scene with ample confidence in him and not a care in the world. A recent adjunct to the modeling industry, he is making his way keeping small but steady steps with a mission in life to work hard and party harder!

Anup says, “As far as I can remember, I have always been a confused kid. I was hardly the kind of person who would plan for his future, but destiny has been kind to me. While in Assam, some friends did tell me I could be a model if I want to, but I never took it seriously. After finishing my first year exams, I had gone to Guwahati for my holidays. It was one of those evening when I was hanging out at one of the Malls, designer and stylist, Dipankar Kashyap spotted me and asked me if I would like to be a model. I was zapped for a moment but soon got excited with the idea and said yes to him. Soon, with the help of Dipankar, I got my folio done from photographer Suvo Das, styled by Dipankar and because the folio was done so well, I immediately started getting work. I feel very lucky. Had it not been for Dipankar Kashyap and later for designer Varun Bahl, my career wouldn’t have jumpstart the way it has. I will remain forever grateful to them.”

Family and Academics…
I am from Assam, and I did my schooling from there itself and right now pursuing Geography Honors from Delhi University.

Parent’s reaction to your choice of modeling as a career…
My parents are happy with my career path because I’m following my academic as well and modeling is a side job.

First modeling assignment…
My first modeling assignment was under Elite. It was a photo shoot for Nike by Tarun Khiwal. After that I have done shoots for a lot of other brands like Reebok, Van Heusen and others.

Greatest achievement till date…
I am very new to this field and I don’t think that I have achieved momentous success. However I’ll say my latest shoot with Rohit Chawla was quiet a milestone. This photo shoot was inspired by Gustav Klimt’s paintings for a calendar shoot with artistic costumes and set up. It was really an awesome experience.

Idea of an ideal date…
Well technically I’m single at the moment and I’m not actually expecting a date in the near future. I suppose my companion should be at least average looking, bright and interesting. One of my all time favorite places is Select City walk and that is the place I would like to go for a stroll or may even Lap Garden for my ideal date.

When not modeling what are you most likely to be found doing…
I’m a great fan of Hollywood movies and I like watching everything from good action flicks, to romances, to comedy. In my spare time I’ll be found watching movies, listening to music and also most importantly, gyming!!
Five essentials for a model to climb the ladder of success…
.Good looking
.Good height and body
.Confident
·Patient
.Should have trust in himself

Views on Indian vs. Western models…
 I’ll say that western models maintain themselves better. They are bold in terms of clothes and their attitude. There are a lot of Indian models; I won’t take names; that have risen to fame and now they are not keeping up that image, they look bulky. So I would say Indian models should get a little thinner and maintain their looks. Also there is a lot of politics among Indian models, which is not all that alluring.

The most touching moment of your life…
Oh! I’m still very young to have too many touching moments, but I think every time I go back home to Assam; and that happens like once every year; it is one of the emotional times in life. 
Quick snippets   
FAVORITE FOOD:  Something with fewer calories, healthy food but once in a while a small binge, I like mutton best.

FAVORITE PERFUME: Hugo Boss Elegance

FAVORITE DESIGNER: Varun Bahl is one of my favorites. I also like Gaurav Gupta’s collection it is highly wearable. Among International brands my favorite is Dolce and Gabbana.  

FAVORITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION: My hometown, Assam

FAVOURITE MUSIC: I listen to everything except Death Metal. It depends on my mood
YOUR GREATEST FEAR: There is nothing that I can think of…

YOUR ADVICE FOR THE UPCOMING MODELS:
Well I don’t think I have been in this field long enough to start giving advice to people but I think the most important thing is to believe in oneself.

 

Riyaz Qureashi

Introducing a yet another name in the fashion industry, we tie up-close with Riyaz Qureashi. He has been walking the ramp for more than three years exposing almost every designer’s outfits.  Now Riyaz also boasts of two films in his credit, “It’s a man’s world” and an upcoming movie “Knock Out”. Essentially from Jaipur he embarks his presence felt in the city of dreams, Mumbai. A down to earth person who takes life as it comes relaxes with trying his hands on cooking spree.

Family and Academics…
My hometown is Jaipur where I grew up with my parents. All my schooling and my college was from Jaipur itself.

Parent’s reaction to your choice of modeling as a career…
To my parents modeling was a very new field and essentially they were more inclined towards diverting to an academic career, something that would ensure better permanence and stability. However now that I have established myself in this field they are happy for me.

First modeling assignment…
My first modeling assignment was with German Vogue almost three years ago.

Greatest achievement till date…
I suppose my greatest achievement is my winning the Mr. Talent title in Grasim Mr. India in 2005-2006.

Idea of an ideal date…
For me an ideal date is being in a beautiful place with good company. I think that the right company can make any place beautiful. Being with that special someone can still feel good even if I am sitting in a graveyard.

When not modeling what are you most likely to be found doing…
Well there are some nice gyms here in Mumbai. I spend my free time in the gym, doing yoga and cardio exercises. Also I work part time as a Consultant with an Australian Company.

Five essentials for a model to climb the ladder of success…
One of the most essential elements is having a good personality which reflects a good aura. An outstanding individuality is what you need to be good in every aspect, the way you speak, the way you carry yourself and your confidence.

Views on Indian vs. Western models…
The major differences that I feel is, Western models are more professional, they stick to their line of work only. You never hear that Tom Cruise was a model once. However Indian models try to enter Bollywood or soap operas. I believe that a person should be focused on his line of action, his field and I don’t really admire this trend of Indian models entering the film or television industry.

The most touching moment of your life…
I use to be a rather shy guy a few years ago and lump would invariably crawl to my throat when somebody asked me a question. So when I got shortlisted for Grasim Mr. India it was the most touching moment of my life because it was nothing I had expected in the face of such tough competition. 
Quick snippets  
FAVORITE FOOD: Chicken Biryani

FAVORITE PERFUME: Bvlgari Aqua and I also like Burberry

FAVORITE DESIGNER:  All of them are my favorites as I have walked the ramp for almost all the designers.

FAVORITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION: My home, Jaipur

FAVOURITE MUSIC: I am a huge fan of Asha Bhosle
YOUR GREATEST FEAR: Being an old man

YOUR ADVICE FOR THE UPCOMING MODELS:
Don’t make modeling your primary career. Let education or business be your career and make modeling your part time job. Only when you think that you are perfect for the career of modeling should you enter this field. Don’t just enter to try your luck it will be a waste.

 

Farah Zulaikha

Farah Zulaikha is a New York based International Supermodel and has graced many runways, red carpets, magazines, and advertisements all over the world. Besides being extremely humble, philanthropist and socialite the exotic beauty with her regal features, black long hair and royal Middle Eastern bloodline is the Princess of unmatched allure. She has recently signed up as the face of famed young designer and VH1 Glam God Indashio’s S/S 2010 "Jet Set" Collection. Fashionfad.in caught up exclusively with her confessions and concealments:
Family and academics…
Although I like to brag that my family is quite the fashionable one, I am the only one who went into fashion. Coming from a long line of physicians and health professionals, I am myself studying medical in addition to my fruitful modeling career. My dream is to become a physician specializing in plastics and reconstructive surgery.
Parent’s reaction on your choice of modeling as a career…
Coming from a Middle Eastern moderate Muslim family, modeling was definitely not the norm. I never abandoned my studies. I held up my end of the bargain, so my parents were lenient when it came time for modeling. Being so young, I always had my mother accompany me to shoots, shows, etc.
First modeling assignment…
I started modeling at a very young age, in my early teens gracing the runway in New York Fashion Week. And my very first modeling gig was for a major runway show in New York Olympus Fashion Week was chock full of these ice queens.
Greatest achievement till date…
My greatest achievement was surprisingly not on a runway or behind a camera lens. It was actually a lifelong process if you will. Since the age of 8, I have travelled with my parents to various areas of the world where people are in dire need of medical attention. I remember this one guy in Darfur, he was a refugee who had unfortunately got an infection in his nasal cavity from a prior untreated injury. The infection spread throughout his entire midsection of his face, until it ate away all of the tissue and left only a big hole. We reconstructed his nasal dorsi with cartilage from behind his ear and grafted a flap of skin from his forehead. The fact that I could help even one life, is what I feel to be my greatest accomplishment.
Idea of an ideal date…
My idea of a perfect date would have to be a laid-back and intimate setting which could combine my two great loves: good music and good food.
When not modeling what are you most likely to be found doing…
When not modeling I can either be found studying, researching or doing charity work as I am proud to call myself an active young philanthropist. I work a lot with Operation Smile, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital for pediatric cancer. I am also a member of the United Way of New York City’s Young Leaders Council.
Five essentials for a model to climb the ladder of success…
1- Stay true to yourself
2- Know your market
3- Work with reputable people and do your research
4- Take good care of yourself and be prepared for everything.
5- Stay far away from drugs and alcohol
Experience in India…
I had a wonderful experience on the Indian runway. One night, a few members of the makeup crew were kind enough to sneak out of the IIFW mayhem and take us around Delhi to see some sights like the opulent India Gate and Parliament building. We had Indian local food on some side street where I sat on top of the car in a sparkly sequin gold Alice + Olivia dress and Balenciaga ankle booties on the back hood, and ate the most amazing rice curry, piyaaz pakoras and vegetable samosas. After that we took pictures sitting in an Indian rickshaw. I had one of my most amazing time in the streets of Delhi.
Views on Indian vs. Western models…
I have been asked the question of Indian models vs. Western models a lot. Although it may seem controversial but has a very simple answer, there is no difference between Indian models and Western models, besides the way they look. The uniformity should only come in the sizes and heights, not in the ethnicities.
Most touching moment of your life…
I have had a lot of touching moments in my life. There is one that stands out, however. During a charity mission I met a young woman who was a victim of an acid attack. She was an infamous dancer in the red-light district who had caught the wayward glance of some very bad and powerful men. Her rejections to their advances caused them to retaliate by cruelly dousing her with acid in the middle of a crowded marketplace. I helped convince her to go public with what happened to her and helped bring international attention to her plight.
Quick snippets
• FAVORITE FOOD: My favorite dish is hands down, MATTAR PANEER, preferably with a fluffy buttery naan and no silverware! Sahi maaza aate hain jab haath kay saath khathe hain ;)
• FAVORITE PERFUME: My signature scent is actually a custom perfume that I have mixed myself, which is infused with jasmine and rose.
• FAVORITE LINGERIE BRAND: if I had to choose I would say that you cannot go wrong with the luxury of La Perla.
• FAVORITE DESIGNER: I have modeled for most of the top designers; have worn the best of the best clothes and have loved them all. But, I would have to say my favorite designer would be my good friend, Indashio the "Glam God". He is one of the youngest designers to have ever shown in New York Fashion Week, and many people also know him from his reality show called "Glam God" on VH1. I am Indashio’s muse and inspiration. He made his last collection around me, and I am the face of his ad campaign and was his showstopper in Mercedes-Benz NYFW this past September.
• FAVORITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION: My second home, Dubai!!!
• FAVOURITE MUSIC: I listen to all types of music. If it makes my ears happy then I am happy to listen to it! From arabic bellydance tunes, to Europop, to latin salsa and merengue, to west Indian soca and reggae, to American hip-hop, and especially Indian bhangra and Bollywood tunes, I enjoy and appreciate it all!
• YOUR GREATEST FEAR: The one thing I fear the most is losing a loved one. My family and friends are my strength and backbone.
• YOUR PIECE OF ADVICE FOR UPCOMING MODELS: Have a pure heart and a thick skin. Don’t let rejection get in the way of your success, just let it roll off.

The Kingfisher Sizzle

The first look of the supercharged Kingfisher 2010 calendar was unveiled over a plush brunch hosted by Dr. Vijay Mallya, Chairman, and United Breweries at his residence ‘Niladri’ on the 20th of December. The launch party was graced by the presence of the ever so beautiful Deepika Padukone as the guest of honour of the event.

The ever so anticipated calendar had already made incredible buzz with its reality show – Kingfisher Hunt for Calendar girl 2010 on NDTV Good Times. Kingfisher Swimsuit Calendar 2010 features six stunning and gorgeous models from across the globe, giving it a truly global appeal: Aashika Pratt (New Zealand / India), Sonali Raut (India), Gia Johnson Singh(London/India) ,Esha Gupta (India) and NDTV’S Hunt for the Calendar Girl 2010 winner – Himarsha Venkatsamy and 2nd placed Anjali Lavania.

Shot across the incredible idyllic islands in the Indian Ocean with azure waters and clean beaches, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Gili provided the perfect backdrop for fashion photographer Atul Kasbekar. He is the person who had conceived the calendar for UB group and has been shooting them since 2003 travelling from Mauritius, Thailand, South Africa, Australia and this time to Maldives. Atul appreciating the amazing weather at the islands says, the focus of this year’s is calendar is the shots, clicked with baby sharks.

 
The maverick designer Aki Narula has styled the entire shoot. He dressed the girls in garments form designers like Alberta Ferretti, Diane von Furstenberg, Jean Paul Gaultier, Shrivan Naresh, Dsquared in one-piece zipper swimsuits, monokinis, trikinis, in solids as well as prints. Aki adds the Indian sparkle in accessories as matches’ bondage bikini with ivory bangles from Rajasthan and a Kamasutra bikini with twenty five antique silver necklaces around her. The gallery of shoes he uses is extremely edgy and fashion forward ranging from Jimmy Choos, Lanvins to Jean Paul Gaultier. Aki recollecting his experience during the shoot remarks, “I have given it a completely global look having sourced bikinis and shoes from across the world. The calendar is an amalgamation of culture. Indian influences like the use of traditional ancient jewellery, ghungroos, and hathphool make the calendar at par with any swimsuit calendar in the world.”


 
The make-up for the calendar has been flawlessly created by Kapil Bhalla, who has painted the picture in dominance of orange and pink for make-up and coral for mouth. However the more quirky fashion is taken care in nail paints that glitter in candy colours of sea green, orange, fuschia and corals.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vijay Mallya, Chairman, The UB Group, said: “I am extremely proud that what started as a passion to spread Good Times among patrons of luxury and fashion has become a brand to reckon with today. In its 8th edition, the Kingfisher Calendar 2010 is the ultimate in luxury, glamour and style with international brands associating with the calendar making it a truly global property.”

 

Eskimo Vie in India

The model rendezvous at Vie lounge and deck in Mumbai this December was to announce the most happening upsurge in the modeling and fashion industry. As Basab Paul, a pioneer in the business of luxury and lifestyle in India announced the India landing of International talent Management Company, Eskimo which has now been rechristened Eskimo Vie. Cuba Junior, a man of many talents and an experience of over 22 years in the business of fashion and film from over the world is the Indian Coo fro Eskimo Vie.
 
The celebration showcased eight international models that were flown in from Germany and Spain. These models who have worked with renowned labels and brands in Europe and America, will now work in India exclusively through Eskimo Vie. Instead of a fashion show, the models took turns posing dramatically in a specially-designed window.
 
“Fine living and lifestyle have been a part of India and our culture. I am proud to be associated with the projects that serve a platform in presenting Mumbai as a truly world class city. Our company endeavors in constantly setting bench marks for ourselves in luxury and hospitality segments. With Vie and C’est La Vie already having a positive impact, I am delighted to introduce Eskimo Vie and the COO Cuba Junior to India. Fashion of course will be the priority with a strong focus on bridging the Indian and international film route,” said Basab Paul on the occasion of celebration.

Bharat Kundra

PRINT CAMPAIGNS:
1. Airtel
2. British Council
3. Samsung
4. Reliance
5. Octave
6. SBI
7. Samsung
8. AVON
9. Apollo Insurance
10. India Picture
11. Hao Shi Niah Niah
12. NIIT
13. Shoot for Network 18
14. Hi- Style
15.Shoot for Volkswagen catalogue
16. TVC shoot for Liril soap
17. Shoot for Venus music video
18. Shoot for Royal Challenge
19. Shoot for Central mall
20.Shoot for OCM
21. Shoot for Magpie
Shoots:
NDtv Lifestyle
SHOWS/Preview:
  1. Rajesh Pratap Singh
  2. Shoppers stop
  3. Louis Philipe
  4. Grasim suitings
  5. Bride n Groom 2007
  6. JJ Valaya
  7. Rohit Bal
  8. Provogue
  9. Reebok.
  10.  Pearl Academy
  11.  Puma
  12.  Guess
  13. Show for Manish Arora Circuit.
  14.  Toni and Guy
  15.  J.J Vallaya
  16.  Showing for Reebok
  17.  ICL Show in Chandigarh
  18. CW Show for Varun Bahl – Karan Johar
  19. Preview for anjali and arjun Kapoor
  20. WIFW Autumn Winter 09
  21. KFW,09
  22. WIFW Autumn Winter 09
  23. Show for reebok
  24. Sabyasachi show for Cancer Society.
  25. Show for Provogue
  26. Showing for Hugo Boss.
  27. Show for lerros
OTHER ACIEVEMENTS:
Grasim Mr. India 2007
Corporate Av for ITC
EDITORIALS:
Spread for Men’s Health
Asiana Magazine
Cover for Men’s Health
Fashion Feature for Mansworld