Never go the Viveka way

Fashion industry veterans want to reach out and guide young fashion models so they don’t ever succumb to their professional lows.
Remember Madhur Bhandarkar’s National Award-winning film Fashion with Kangna Ranaut and Priyanka Chopra playing super models, who bear the ups and down of the glamour world? Those very film scenes almost feel real to many fashionistas in Mumbai, right since the day model Viveka Babaji committed suicide in her Bandra residence a fortnight ago.
Viveka’s death under mysterious circumstances sprung a reality-check for those who scorch the ramp and are party circle favourites. People who knew her feel that Viveka succumbed to the trappings of the fashion world. Before Viveka, model Nafisa Joseph and television actor Kuljeet Randhawa also met with similar tragic ends. On the other hand, aspiring models who are entering this glamourous field feel that a helping hand of guidance is what is most needed. BT spoke to fashion veterans about a way out and how they could help the fresh breed in the fashion circles:
JUST LIKE THE FILM: Queenie says, “Yes, Viveka Babaji’s suicide does feel like a page out of the film Fashion. It’s difficult to come to terms with Viveka’s suicide. It’s important that every model understands his/her strengths and moves on with time.”
OPEN FOR HELP: Achla Sachdev believes strongly in the power of spirituality to heal. She says, “Everybody needs peace of mind, whether they are basking in good times or experiencing professional lows. Since the new breed of models are active on networking sites. I am open to messages on my personal networking account. We are also ready to connect to them in person.”
HAVE A FLING WITH MODELLING: Marc Robinson constantly remains in touch with the young and aspiring models who come from different parts of the country to Mumbai. “My advice to them has always been ‘education and family’ are the key to a happy life. Modelling should be their second option and they should only have a fling with this industry. If it works out, then good but always look and focus on the large factual picture. They should, save their income and have a realistic plan B, as modelling is short-lived and very competitive. The professional rides do come to an end and sometimes abruptly,” he cued.
GET A CLEAR PICTURE: Lubna Adams asserts, “Everyone could do with a helping hand. But what’s important is that a model must first assess whether he or she has the true potential to be a ramp biggie and also be aware of his/her limitations. Seniors in this field must give a clear and honest picture about the modelling scenario and that is what I try to do. Only when there is potential, training can help.”
FREE YOUR MIND: Deanne Pandey, who’s been training actors and models for years, feels that people who are in the limelight should strengthen their minds. “Remain positive and respect your body. Every age has its charm and one must grow with its beauty and flaws. I always advise ‘detachment’, so that the mind doesn’t get affected drastically with anything.”
IT’S A GOOD START: Former Miss World and actress Diana Hayden does not feel right to comment on a person who’s passed away. But “A way ahead to help other aspirants in fashion industry is the right direction to follow,” she added.
nimisha.tiwari@timesgroup.com
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