Q. You mentioned you always wanted to be a model, but never wore a turban at home. How did your turban become a part of your modelling identity?
A. Growing up, I dreamt of being a turban model, but my family didn’t wear turbans. When I visited Amritsar, I saw the religious significance and felt a connection. Although I didn’t wear one regularly, it became a part of me when I started studying in Chandigarh and learned to tie one myself. It felt like a complete representation of myself – with and without it, something felt missing.
Q. You faced initial resistance when you wanted to participate in a fashion show due to your religious background. How did you overcome that?
A. Their reaction was discouraging. They seemed to have a stereotype of religious people not being interested in fashion. However, my professors and classmates who knew me better encouraged me to pursue it. While the initial experience wasn’t ideal, it fuelled my determination to break barriers and show that Sikhs can participate in the modelling industry while staying true to their faith.
Q. Can you tell us about your first modelling experience?
A. It was an unexpected opportunity! I saw a post from a designer in California looking for models for a Durga Maa celebration fashion show. Despite being camera shy, I sent a picture and was invited. It was a positive experience, showcasing Punjabi suits, and even the mayor complimented me. My fellow nurses were surprised and encouraging, which sparked further interest in pursuing modelling.
Q. How did you balance your nursing career with modelling, especially considering the height difference heels create?
A. Nursing is my primary profession, and I also love teaching. Modelling is a separate passion I enjoy when the opportunity arises. Wearing heels was new to me in California, but I surprisingly felt comfortable and confident. The added height is something people notice anyway, so heels just accentuated it in a positive way.
Q. You mentioned feeling like you can represent both your Sikh religion and your love for modelling. How do you navigate any potential conflicts between the two?
A. Sikhism allows freedom of thought within boundaries set by religion, not culture. My faith teaches love and service, which I can embody as a nurse. Modelling allows me to express myself creatively while staying true to my beliefs. There’s a misconception that religious people can’t participate in activities like modelling, and I’m challenging that notion.
Q. How has your family reacted to your success in modelling?
A. Initially, they were surprised by my height in a turban! They’ve been incredibly supportive throughout my journey. My mum even sends me clothes! It’s become a balanced part of my life, and they’re proud to see me thriving in both my professions.
Q. You recently won Miss Bharat Elite California USA. How has this pageant title impacted your modelling career?
A. Winning the pageant was a confidence booster! It opened doors to new opportunities, like walking a runway show in New York. Even though I prefer modest clothing, the organisers were respectful and provided a dupatta to manage coverage. This experience highlighted the importance of advocating for your needs while staying true to yourself.
Q. Social media has played a significant role in your visibility. How did you get started and how do you manage it?
A. The idea of social media was initially unfamiliar. It was a fellow model in London who encouraged me to create a professional account to showcase my work. While I’m still learning the ropes, I appreciate the connections it’s fostered and the platform it provides to inspire others.
Q. You’ve received hate comments questioning your religious attire while modelling. How do you deal with negativity?
A. I choose to focus on positive feedback and constructive criticism. Hate comments reveal more about the sender than me. I believe in open communication – if someone has genuine concerns, I’m happy to have a dialogue. However, negativity doesn’t define me, and I won’t let it deter me from pursuing my goals.
Q. How does your connection to India influence your life and career?
A. My roots in India significantly shape who I am, influencing both my life and career in profound ways. Even though I’ve built a life in California, my connection to my family and heritage in India is something that remains deeply important to me. I make a point to visit India as often as I can, ensuring that I stay connected to where I come from. This connection enriches my experiences and perspectives, offering me a unique blend of cultural insights that I bring into my work in modeling. The values, traditions, and relationships tied to my Indian heritage contribute to my resilience, adaptability, and the depth I bring to my role in the global fashion industry.
Q. How do you balance the excitement of new opportunities with the demands of a busy schedule?
A.Balancing the excitement of new opportunities with a hectic schedule is something I navigate by focusing on prioritization and readiness for anything that comes my way. I believe in divine guidance and the importance of being open to both love and criticism. I view each opportunity as a chance to grow and contribute, while also being mindful of the pressures and commitments each new project brings. Staying prepared for both the positive and negative aspects of my career, I maintain a resilient and adaptable mindset, ensuring that I can make the most of my experiences while staying true to my values and goals.
Q. What concerns do you have about the impact of your work on others?
A. One of my biggest concerns is the influence my work might have on others. I’m very aware of my responsibility as a public figure and strive to ensure that my actions and the content I produce serve as a positive inspiration rather than leading anyone astray. This conscientious approach reflects my values and my desire to contribute positively to society. My awareness of the potential impact of my work drives me to be thoughtful about the messages I send and the examples I set, highlighting my commitment to integrity and the well-being of my audience.
Q. How do you respond to the expectations and support of your fans?
A. I’m deeply appreciative of my fans’ support and their wishes for me to succeed. I don’t see their expectations as a burden but rather as a source of motivation and a reminder of the change I hope to bring about in society. The support from my fans fuels my determination to keep going, even when faced with challenges. This relationship underscores the importance of community and mutual support in achieving personal and professional goals. It reflects my humility and gratitude towards those who believe in me, motivating me to strive for excellence and make a meaningful impact.
Q. How has your cultural background influenced your professional journey?
A. My cultural background, rooted in the values and traditions of my hometown in Gurdaspur, has significantly shaped my professional journey. The misconceptions others might have about my cultural heritage, like a tendency towards aggression, are in stark contrast to the values of honesty, integrity, and mutual support that I actually experience. These cultural influences have given me a strong sense of identity and a commitment to authenticity, which I bring to my work in the fashion industry. By challenging stereotypes and showcasing the richness of my cultural heritage, I contribute to a more nuanced understanding of diversity and resilience in the professional world.
Q. Can you discuss the significance of language and regional identity in your life?
A. Language and regional identity are profoundly significant to me, acting as a source of strength and connection to my roots. Despite stereotypes associated with my regional dialect, I take pride in the uniqueness and richness of my cultural identity. This pride is a testament to the depth and complexity of regional identities and their impact on both personal and professional identities. My embrace of my cultural and linguistic background enriches my interactions and work, offering a perspective that values authenticity and diversity. This approach not only challenges stereotypes but also celebrates the unique contributions of various cultures to the global tapestry.
Q. Looking forward, how do you envision your next steps in your career and personal growth?
A. As I look towards the future, I see a path marked by continued exploration, learning, and growth. Open to the myriad possibilities that my career in modelling and beyond may offer, I am ready to take on new challenges and seize opportunities that align with my values and aspirations. My focus on maintaining a balance between professional success and personal fulfilment guides my decisions, ensuring that I remain true to my roots and values while striving for excellence. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of one’s passions, serving as an inspiration to others seeking to navigate the complexities of career and identity in a globalized world.