Where were you career-wise?
I was Miss India. I think that was the best thing that happened to me at that time. It was like a dream come true.
Did your parents’ impetus give you the confidence to enter the pageant?
My mother didn’t compliment me. The previous generation wasn’t hugged and complimented as kids, and they didn’t know how to. My father insisted on education and being a good person. I had to become Miss India to feel validated in my mind.
What was your equation with money?
My focus then was to become financially independent. Women should have their own money as then they can lead lives on their own terms. When I was 13, my dad said, “I’ll support you till you’re 18. After that, you have to fend for yourself.” Because he believed in me, I found the confidence and got into modelling.
{{/usCountry}}My focus then was to become financially independent. Women should have their own money as then they can lead lives on their own terms. When I was 13, my dad said, “I’ll support you till you’re 18. After that, you have to fend for yourself.” Because he believed in me, I found the confidence and got into modelling.
{{/usCountry}}Did you go by the name Sonu then?
My parents Satinder Singh and Damanjit Kaur called me Sonu, but didn’t give me a proper name. When I was in class 5 in Carmel Convent, Chandigarh, my grandfather decided to change my name to Sanjeet Kaur. I was 10, but I put my foot down, saying, “I want to be Sonu!”
Your high fashion shopping hub?
I shopped in the States because American sizes were perfect for me. I remember Rohit Khosla taking me to a garage sale in New York.
Your most prized possession then?
It could have been a sea-facing flat in Versova that I was going to buy. But I needed 50 costumes for the pageant. I had to make my own wardrobe, which made a big dent in my savings.
A memorable anecdote from then?
After the Miss Universe pageant, I went to Texas, New York, London and Paris. I signed my first autograph while I was on top of the Eiffel Tower! Imagine, I am on top of this amazing edifice and somebody comes up and says, “Are you Sonu Walia, Miss India? Can I have your autograph?” It was a precious moment.
Your idea of handsome then and now?
I adored Shashi Kapoor. In my Miss India pictures, I’m smirking as I couldn’t believe I was standing next to him! I’m waiting for Taimur Ali Khan to grow up; he will be a worthy successor!
From HT Brunch, October 3, 2021
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