“I don’t fit into the Indian fashion scene that’s obsessed with white skin”

Life has changed for supermodel Lakshmi Menon since the death of photographer Prabuddha Dasgupta, the love of her life.

It was a hard, unseasonably hot and sweaty day in Goa. We were working on the trials for a cover shoot. The lanky, thin model was quietly trying on outfit after outfit along with our team of stylists and fashion editors. I stood by the door of the room (even the fans weren’t working that day), leaving the team to deal with it.

“I don’t fit into the Indian fashion scene that’s obsessed with Bollywood starlets and white skin” (Photo: Italian Marie Claire)

“I am private, not a recluse. I can’t talk to everyone, and I have little patience for people who are not interesting.” (Italian Marie Claire)

“I care two hoots about people who call me controversial. My life with Prabuddha was the life I chose, and I continue to live my choices.” (Italian Marie Claire)