“It definitely was not an easy step; it’s never easy to live your dreams, which is why dreams are so hyped about.”
SJ: You came from an army background and transitioned to the world of fashion? What made you change your path and was it a natural step from the views of society? NS: Joining the army was an emotional decision I made following my father’s footsteps. He was an Ex-Air Force Officer while I was an Ex-Captain in the military. As far as modelling is concerned, it was my dream and passion. So one fine day I decided, this is it. I want to live my dreams now and not someone else’s. I have been an abiding girl, so I deserve it all the more! It was not an easy step; it’s never easy to live your dreams, which makes them so hyped. But it is worth it.
the basic criteria (height, weight, features, etc.). I have always been very persistent, patient, hungry but never greedy to achieve. Right decisions take you a long way in any sphere of life.
SJ: Your venture into the industry has been so recent yet successful; from glossy editorials to fashion campaigns at airports; to what do you attribute your success? NS: It’s been one and a half years since I started modelling, apart from fulfilling
SJ: What is your biggest achievement as a model? NS: Since the start of my career, I have walked the ramp for every season of the most reputed Fashion Weeks in the country, namely Amazon India Fashion Week and Lakmé Fashion Week.
SJ: With society so unfortunately obsessed with white-skinned models, have you ever felt discriminated in this line of profession? NS: As far as modelling is concerned, I haven’t felt discriminated. The fashion industry has welcomed me with open arms; it’s the commercial field that is obsessed with fair skin.
SJ: Do you feel the industry has become more accepting of darkSJ: What makes the two professions skinned models over the years? alike? NS: Yes. The industry has always valued NS: Perseverance, physical fitness, the ones who deserve being valued, loads of mental strength and the will to and I have been very fortunate in that make it happen. aspect.
SJ: What is your dressing aesthetic? NS: I love wearing oversized jackets, especially denim and comfy lose clothes with sneakers! SJ: What advice would you give to aspiring models venturing into the industry? NS: Work hard, dream more, believe in yourself and mind your own business. SJ: Where do you see yourself in five years? NS: I see myself as a successful photographer or filmmaker. SJ: Do you feel India is an upcoming fashion destination? NS: Yes, totally! We have such amazing designers who are young, talented and bubbling with Ideas. Manish Arora and Rahul Mishra are already huge overseas. Some upcoming designers have it in them and are going to make it big as well.
COVER IMAGE: Nikita wears an un-buttoned lapeled waistcoat and trousers by Urvashi Kaur with suede peep toe platform sandals by Zara.
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