Saturday, October 18, 2008

Just a random class assignment.... But a real interview...

When it comes to fashion, a country like India has always been conservative. Modeling as a line of work has yet to gain reverence and significance in our society. In recent years, however, Fashion has taken on a whole new meaning. Women in our country have outgrown the above contemplation about the profession. Most women today are far more open towards ideas that were once considered taboo amongst our general public. Today women have a sense of self belief far more superior than it ever was. Right from a young age women have the courage to stand up for their own thoughts and dreams. Women today are ready to set an example for the younger age band. One such example of a woman who has broken the stereotype of the preconceived notions the fashion world brings and is ready to make a difference is Sandhya Shetty.

A versatile and talented model, Shetty is far from what supermodels should primarily constitute, beauty and great bodies. This ambitious model turned actress is not only turning heads as she walks down the ramp but is turning heads in amazement at the things that seem to make her who she is today.

An English Literature graduate from St Xaviers, Shetty has always been someone whose paid attention to academics. She believes that being good at modeling or anything for that matter goes much beyond just looking good or having a pretty face, "To be a successful model, it takes a great amount of intelligence apart from being just a pretty face and have a great body" and she certainly practices what she preaches. What's ironic though is that this is not what she thought she'd end up doing. "I never wanted to become a model," she says, "Modeling just happened to me by chance."

During our two hour interview she let us in on a number of 'tricks of the trade' and told us how she had first started out with sports and the NCC. "I've always been interested in sports and even enrolled myself to join the army." It's amazing to think of the things she's achieved all on her own. "I wouldn't have been able to do it without the help and support of my family" is what she humbly admits. With vast knowledge under her belt that only seems to add to her personality, Shetty is the perfect embodiment of a 21st century diva. Studying Fashion Designing to enhance her stance in the fashion world. But her thirst didn't stop there. She even went on to study law and is well versed with her rights as an Indian citizen.

Conquering the fashion world,gracing the cover of international magazines and even being part of Femina Miss India where she finished as a finalist, Shetty has now turned her attention to the silver screen, having acted in a few productions. She was part of MF Hussain's Meenaxi: A tale of three cities, 2003; Bas Yun Hi, 2003; Khabi Socha Bhi Na Tha, 2007.

There is nothing this stunning and intelligent woman won't do to become the person she dreams of. She believes in her identity and encourages poeple not to shy away from their true selves. When asked whether there was one thing she was truly proud of, she says, "I wouldn't say that I'm proud of anything I've done but I am very happy about the Bengali movie I made, Kaal. It gave me a chance to explore myself."

There is nothing better than a self made woman in a country like India and it is imperative for more and more women to follow in Sandhya's footsteps. She truly stands for self belief and clearly speaks through her actions what determination, hard work and following your dreams can achieve in the real world.

Charlene Flanagan