The Hindu : New Delhi News : "Education first, modelling later"

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Feb 28, 2007
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New Delhi

"Education first, modelling later"

Maureen Wadia

Upcoming young models should first complete their studies before walking on the ramp, says Gladrags Beauty Pageants president Maureen Wadia, adding: "It is important for models to stand on their own feet and not borrow money from their parents."

Maureen, who was in Delhi this past week to select the North Zone contestants for the Gladrags and Manhunt Contest 2007, says a large number of budding models are pursuing modelling as an excuse to keep away from studies or regular jobs. "This trend needs to be urgently stopped. We don't want youngsters to pursue modelling at the cost of their education and job security," says Maureen.

Stating that Bollywood actor John Abraham is a perfect example for upcoming models to emulate, Maureen notes that Gladrags discovery John slogged in the advertising world before making a mark in the modelling world. "Even Dino Morea and Koena Mitra came to me after completing their education."

The final of the contest will be held in Mumbai on April 7 and is open to those who have charisma and oodles of confidence. "We will select only those models who have sincerity, perseverance and self-discipline. From each State, four to five contestants will be selected." Expressing satisfaction that the models discovered by her were now doing meaningful roles in soap operas, Maureen says: "Models groomed by me are also joining Ekta Kapoor's Balaji Telefilms. Some who I thought were short or simply lacked the appeal are successfully working in television serials." -- Madhur Tankha

-- Madhur Tankha

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