CHENNAI: Afashion show is nothing without the models. No matter how glamorous or stylish a product can be, it doesn’t guarantee eye-balls if it’s not presented well. Beautifully put-together, the random, and not-so-random models breathe life into what they wear and showcase.
Meet two aspiring models, Maya Ganesh (22) and Suja Merla (24) who walked the ramp for the recently held Fashion Student’s Association (FSA) show at Hotel Clarion. Hailing from a conservative family, they have a burning desire to succeed in the modeling industry without compromising on their ethics and culture.
“I need to take care of my family’s status and prestige. Night shows and parties are limited. Though I grew up in a modern world, I always set a limit for everything,” says Maya, who won the Best Model award.
While Maya entered the field of acting and modelling after Class 12, Suja had a completely different story to tell. “I was silent and studious, and spent most of my time in the library. I was also a college topper but I loved the dais. I was reserved and couldn’t open up to anyone. When I shifted to Chennai for a job as a mapper in Amazon, the independence and responsibility took a turn. I confided to my father and here I am,” smiles Suja.
How crucial is parents’ support for an aspiring model? “Most important during the formative years,” says the duo. Suja draws inspiration from her father. “Any articles on models or a healthy diet he finds, he will call and ask me to read it. He watched me as I walked the ramp for the first time at Karthik Srinivasan’s (celebrated photographer) workshop. He looked so happy and proud,” says Suja, who won the title of Miss Godavari at a beauty pageant in Andhra Pradesh. She also participated in Miss Andhra Pradesh.
Maya stepped into the field two years ago and has been trained by Sunil Menon and Prasad Bidappa. “Every single day in the industry provides us with new tips and learning. Every experience makes us a better and confident model,” she says.
Though tough experiences are a part of any industry for a newcomer, it doesn’t make it easier when fresh faces like Suja do not get paid. “We don’t decline or argue because it gives us exposure. We continue to believe that our hard work and dedication will bring us success eventually. We aren’t going to give up easily,” she explains.