‘I think men like intelligent women’

Nina Manuel, the leggy lass of the ramp, says her boyfriend finds her dusky complexion the hottest thing about her.

Dusky supermodel Nina Manuel, famous for anchoring the page 3 show After Hours — talks about work, men and relationship.

Being in glamour industry you are subjected to the male gaze. Does that make you uncomfortable?
No. I have been on the ramp where both men and women look at me. I am on the stage for a reason. It’s part of my job.

Are men intimidated by your strong personality?
I have been told that. Maybe I give out those vibes. I don’t talk to random people.

Some men have preconceived notions about models. Does that bother you and how do you tackle such men?
It doesn’t bother me. I am educated and I have my head on the shoulders. I wouldn’t do anything to embarrass my parents. What other people think I can’t really change and I can’t really help it.

Do you think men are still hung up on fair skin?
I think it’s passé. Today’s man love dusky women. My boyfriend finds my skin colour the hottest thing about me.

Were you ever discriminated because of your dark skin?
I had a huge complex about dark skin. They would not take dark girls as models for ads. I have done a few ads where they tried to make me fair. I have been lucky because at that time designers were picking up dark girls. The advertising scene wasn’t as good. But I focussed on my strong points — fashion shows.

Do attractive women find it hard to be taken seriously by men?
No. I think men like intelligent women. I don’t know a single man who doesn’t like an intelligent woman.

For how long you’ve been in a relationship? Is he from modeling world?
It’s been over a year. He is an investment banker. He is from Wharton business school. A college friend of ours introduced us.

What is the secret of a successful relationship?
There is no secret. You just go with the flow. Learn to have fun with each other, enjoy each and every moment.

—BNS