She is married….she loves chilling at home – as it is a rarity, and dislike partying. Then what is she doing in the unconventional world of modeling, where Vesta can never be chic? But the rejoinder snaps, as grittily self assured Pavleen Gujral has this instinct of sedition in her. She sashays down the ramp with her head high and body throwing the feline charm. The proud face of brands like Yamaha and Dabur, this legally chic is a lawyer who wanted to make big in the world of ‘suits and trials’ but the destiny turned chameleon and she turned into a model.
So we got the budding fashion darling of Indian ramps, Pavleen Gujral, who hates the traffic of Delhi and loves ‘golgappas’, speaking her laws of life and codes of modeling.
Tell us something about your formative years……
As a child and during my college I was always a geek. I did my schooling in computers, went on to doing my graduation in computers from DU and then completed my LLB from DU itself. I thought I was destined to work as a lawyer in a big time MNC with plenty of people working under me but they say destiny is weird and modeling happened by chance as after I got married I didn’t want to get back to the grind of the 9 to 9 legal job as I wanted to spend more time with my spouse, and I am glad that I didn’t get back to it.
My hubby’s is a business family so its pretty different from what I do but he is very supportive and encouraging so it all works out .
How you bumped into modeling?
I plunged into modeling purely by accident, specifically because of my friend who was working with a TV channel at that time and wanted someone to wear nice clothes and walk a bit. I did it as I was a college kid with plenty of free time plus it sounded interesting, so that job got me hooked and here I am.
When and what was your first modeling assignment?
My first modeling gig was with Reebok, a fashion show. Being from the legal background I was totally clueless about how this industry works but was pleasantly surprised. I went on to do more work for the label from then on.
What did you aspire to become as kid?
I just wanted to be successful no matter what I did, but I was always artistically inclined – theatre, fine arts and dance always imbued me.
Which shows( designers) and commercials have you graced with your presence?
I have done WIFW 2010, Bridal Asia which consisted of designers like Rohit Bal,
Tarun Tahiliani, Neeta Lulla, Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi, to mention a few. I have also been associated with Dabur , LIC , Yamaha and few other brands in the past.
What do you think about the modeling industry in India and abroad?
I believe the modeling industry abroad is a lot more professional and organized. There are so many talented young models in India who don’t get their due because of the way the industry sometimes works. But I guess it is the part and parcel of it – You win somewhere and lose elsewhere and vice versa.
Tell us briefly about your journey so far by now…..
Modeling has been a roller coaster ride for me till now. Just like the trade has its highs and lows so do we the models, being an integral part of it . All in all it has been a learning experience.
What is fashion for you?
It’s a state of mind. I dress the way I feel.
Your take on work pressure leading models to substance abuse and suicides?
It’s a pity when models succumb to the pressure and are driven to such paths. We just have to be strong willed.
What do you think of Bollywood as a career option?
Not really.
When not modeling what are you most likely to be found doing?
Chilling at home…..it’s a rarity these days …that is why.
What do you do for the society being a model?
I have always felt strongly for the work CRY does for underprivileged
children … I try and donate a percentage whenever I can.
Your icon/ role model in life?
Not really an icon but I am a religious person, it inspires me.
Your beauty regime?
None whatsoever, I just keep my skin clean.
Any interesting experience in your career span?
The most interesting aspect is meeting new people everyday, makes one learn a lot about himself.
QUICK SNIPPET
CUISINE: Thai cuisine is my all time favorite.
OLFACTORY: Coolwater
LINGERIE: Too personal to share.
DESIGNERS: Love the look of Lecoanet Hemant’s clothes and Vivienne
Westwood for her edginess.
HOLIDAY DESTINATION: Thailand.
THINGS YOU HATE AND LOVE MOST: Absolutely hate tardiness and Delhi traffic and I just love golgappas like anything.
THING YOU ARE ADDICTED TO: Coffee.
YOU ARE SACRED OF: Sharks, their eyes freak me out.
MUSIC YOU LOVE TO LISTEN TO : Tracy Chapman , John Mayer and Indian Ocean.
ANY GUILTY PLEASURE: Chocolates ….specifically Ghirardelli chocolates are to die for.
