As a designer and model, what initially drew you to the world of fashion and design? Can you share some insights into your creative process?
I have been surrounded by art and fabrics my whole life. My grandmother had a textile business that specialized in embroidery and fabrics, while my mom had a knitwear label and is also a painter. I grew up with old fashion magazines and FashionTV and was always in love with clothing. My inspiration comes from women and their forms, as well as from travel and the outdoors.
You have ventured into various aspects of the fashion industry. Could you tell us about some of your most memorable projects or collaborations?
It’s hard to say as I have had lots of interesting journeys. Fashion and film have taken me to some of the most incredible destinations. Shooting a film under the Eiffel Tower or a magazine cover in Zanzibar are just some of the amazing experiences I have had.
Who, according to you, is the most well-dressed personality in Bollywood?
It’s a hard one, as no one is perfect, and taking risks in fashion sometimes means making mistakes. I think
Malaika Arora would be my spirit animal, as her love for fashion shows in everything she does. For men, Arjun Rampal is timeless and classic.
If you get a chance to dress a Bollywood actress or actor, who would you pick and why?
I am blessed to have worked with my wishlist, and all of them come with their own flair, which I love. I don’t think we have dressed Alia Bhatt in ages, and I love her look.
Being a mother to your sons must be incredibly rewarding. How has motherhood changed your perspective on life and work?
Motherhood makes you more focused, compassionate, and strict with your time. Overall, it’s been wonderful for my work life. I only do things I value and only meet people I admire and care about because it’s hard to separate from your children for anything that doesn’t spark you.
Public Review of ‘Crakk’ | Vidyut Jammwal, Arjun Rampal, Nora Fatehi, Amy Jackson
Tell us something about your love story with Arjun. How did you guys meet, and when did your love blossom?
We don’t really have a very dramatic love story. We had known each other for a long time as mere acquaintances, and then when the time was right, we just knew.
Can you describe your relationship with Mahikaa and Myra and how you’ve grown together as a family unit?
They are wonderful humans, and they have a great mom and dad who have brought them up very well. I am very blessed to have them in my life, and I think Arik and his brother have the best sisters.
Do you have any acting aspirations?
No, I don’t. I think acting is a serious business, and I have tried my hand at it, but my passion is fashion. I think I will leave the acting to the very hardworking and talented individuals who make it their lives. I just want to see my brand grow to new heights.
As a model, have you ever been conscious of your body? If yes, how did you overcome it?
Yes, very! I was always told many things were wrong with me, and I tried to change them. I wasn’t thin enough, not tall enough. I really wanted to work on those things, but age has made me accept and welcome my body and my face. I would love all the younger models out there to remain true to themselves because everyone is beginning to look alike.
Do you feel Bollywood is somewhat responsible for setting the fake beauty standards that young girls fall prey to?
No, I don’t blame Bollywood at all. It’s many years of cultural beauty and fashion standards that have perpetuated it. I think Instagram filters and Botox are more responsible. People need to showcase their flaws, or young women are going to believe we all don’t have any, and that’s really scary. I read an article recently about the depression rate in teen girls, and it’s since the inception of social media. Films were always there, but this is a whole new world.
Was it difficult to break the stereotype that models cannot be a businesswoman?
I think the world is changing so fast. I think it’s about how you feel and what you think you can achieve. I’ve never succumbed to stereotypes.
