interview

Featuring Model Ashwani Neeraj

Fashion Herald featrures Mr. Grand International 19-20, Ashwani Neeraj in its latest stylecheck interview, and discusses questions related to his experience as a model, his fitness mantra, self-care routine and many more. He has been titled as Rubaru Mr. India in 2018 and shares how his corporate career took turn with one decision and here we are with an amazing model representing India at an international level.

How did your modelling career start?

Well let’s say it’s an uncommon story. 3 years back, I’d have never imagined in my wildest dreams that I’ll end up here. I come from a corporate background and around 2017 I was working in Dubai with a luxury fashion brand. I was into the marketing team there. I had a stable, promising career but that wasn’t something I loved doing. Nevertheless, amidst my job and my corporate life I received a call from Rubaru Mr. India, out of the blue that they have selected my profile as the finalist for their prestigious Mr. India. I had to take a major decision. I knew if a agree I won’t be able to continue this as I’ll be needing months to prepare myself, mentally and physically. In March 2018, I was titled as Rubaru Mr. India in Goa. And since then I haven’t looked back.

What is your self care routine?

I personally believe that a person should priorities himself over everything, self care is a very important issue which a lot of youth fail to understand.I feel, “if you love yourself, people will start loving you”.

I take both mental and physical health quite seriously. As I believe both are the key factors for you to work efficiently. I workout 6 days a week to keep my body physically strong and fit. I avoid taking any unnecessary stress. Also, eating a nutrition rich food keeps you both mentally and physically healthy. I try to take 5-6 meals a day. It works for me as eating at regular intervals as it boosts your metabolism and keeps you energetic.

What is your personal style and inspiration?

For me, style comes from within before anything. Personal style means expressing your inner self and till you don’t feel right and confident, you cannot resonate the same.

If you wanna be a model. You don’t dress like a model, you have to feel like a model every time you go out in whatever you’re wearing.

Coming to my personal choice I keep a variety of attire depending on my mood. Usually I keep things casual for my day today wear. I keep a lot of pastel colours Tees/Shirts in my wardrobe. It creates a positive impression. One need to style according to their body type, which is important in looking appealing. For special occasions, I keep it formal as they say, “nothing suits a man, like a suit”.

Share your experience of winning your title : Mr Grand International 2019-20

I feel representing your country on an international level is the biggest individual achievement one can have and winning that, I cannot describe in words. It was surreal.

So the event happened in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Around 25-30 countries participated from across the globe. Contestants there couldn’t pronounce my name right so they use to call me “India” that feeling was out of this world. Being called by your country’s name gives you utmost pride and satisfaction. The contestants were judged throughout the event on all aspects i.e, looks, physique, personality, congeniality. I still remember holding that trophy in my hand and tears of joy rolling from my eyes. It was like a dream, which came true.

What are the five most essentials for you in this career?

The five most essentials for me:

1. Believe in yourself, before anyone else do. You have to believe you can achieve it and people will follow.

2. Perseverance, never give up! Keep working hard for your goals. You will achieve them eventually.

3. Do not panic, things will take time. Some days you will fail. Not everyday is meant for you.

4. Keep your body and mind healthy, always eat the right type of food and have an active regime. Your confident comes from within.

5. Networking is the key, keep yourself with the right kind of people who helps you to grow.

What are your favourite fashion brands?

There are many brands which I like. And I feel more than brands it’s you who carries it well makes it appealing.But still my favourites will be: Gucci, Hugo boss, Armani exchange Calvin Klein, Zara, H&M etc.

Photography : Amit Khanna

Feature Profile : Ashwani Neeraj