You started working out when you were 13! Why begin so young?
My mom was a big fan of Jane Fonda videos when I was in school and it was a big influence. Plus, growing up then in Mumbai, there wasn’t much to do in the parks nearby so I started running. I played football too. I guess physical activity always gave me a kick.
First modelling assignment.
For a stretch mark cream at age 18. They showed my stomach for an ‘After’ shot to show how it would look if you used the product.
How have you seen the definition of beauty change from when you started out?
The idea of what’s beautiful has always changed from culture to culture and country to country. What’s seen as a commercial model in Australia, fits right at home in India but may be considered exotic in New York.
What’s the worst song that’s been stuck in your head in recent times?
I think it’s called Met You In The Summer. I just heard a DJ play it, but I don’t think it’s as bad.
And what are you listening to now?
I just downloaded Disclosure by Latch featuring Sam Smith.
Directors you want to work with?
Vishal Bhardwaj and Zoya Akhtar.
Is there any specific genre of film you want to try out?
I’d love to do an action film or something mellow, which shows the quirkiness of humanity at the same time.
Dream running trail/race.
The Boston marathon.
Music you like running to.
Sometimes I wake up in the mood for mellow music, and sometimes I run to some good electronica or house music. Otherwise I just want to listen to the sound of birds, since I always run at sunrise.
Cheesiest compliment you’ve received.
When I was in Australia I remember getting lines like, "You’re like a star falling from the sky. Your father must be God!".
A compliment you don’t tire of.
Can’t say that out loud! Well, people have told me I’m a warm person and that’s something I’d always like to hear.
How has life changed for you afterQueen?
Life’s become busier. It’s opened a lot of doors for me. but also helped me realise what I want from life. There are opportunities you don’t want to let go of, but you don’t want to lose your head in the process either.
Would you ever endorse a fairness cream?
No, I wouldn’t!
Define your style.
Bohemian, slightly punk, androgynous, and sometimes elegant and feminine.
Your binge-eating favourites.
Cheese. Chocolate. Peanut butter. Bread and butter.
What are the five essentials in your purse?
Hat, lip balm, sunscreen, phone and charger.
A song that you can always dance to.
For the time being, it’s that song from Roy, Sooraj Dooba Hai Yaaron.
How has life changed for you afterQueen?
Life’s become busier. It’s opened a lot of doors for me. but also helped me realise what I want from life. There are opportunities you don’t want to let go of, but you don’t want to lose your head in the process either.
Would you ever endorse a fairness cream?
No, I wouldn’t!
Define your style.
Bohemian, slightly punk, androgynous, and sometimes elegant and feminine.
Your binge-eating favourites.
Cheese. Chocolate. Peanut butter. Bread and butter.
What are the five essentials in your purse?
Hat, lip balm, sunscreen, phone and charger.
A song that you can always dance to.
For the time being, it’s that song from Roy, Sooraj Dooba Hai Yaaron.
From HT Brunch, May 24
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