Ashish Kadyan is worthy of hyperbole. Hailing from Panipat, he joined the modeling industry in 2011 and was determined to one day realise a cherished dream of walking for the topmost designers in the nation! Today, he is. With chocolate skin, chiselled physique and a maturity beyond his age, he is poised to be the next big thing.

"I'm a Jaat boy from Panipat. I completed graduation in commerce from my hometown and only then pursued my passion for modeling. I just knew that I wanted to make my mark in Fashion and in case it had not worked out or work was slow, I have a restaurant… This was in 2011. Armed with confidence and the help of a cousin who encouraged me to transform my passion into a career and helped me get started, I began modeling." Pretty soon Ashish was walking for Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, India Couture Week, bagged an advertising campaign with Bata shoes and appeared on the cover of Men's Health. What makes him different, I ask? "I have a very easygoing personality" he said thoughtfully. "I can take up any challenge and am extremely focused." Despite a hectic work schedule which demands long hours and travel, he is focussed on a workout regime and diet. "I do a lot of free hand exercise. And I carry protein and running shoes with me when I travel!"

What does a modelling career do for you, I ask him? "It gives me the opportunity of meeting people who are not only from the business of Fashion but diverse industrial backgrounds. I also love travelling and exploring different cuisines" he confides. The conversation turns towards work. "Right now I have some good assignments lined up through my agency Inega! Modeling is my passion but I do hope to diversify to the big screen one day — just like my icon Arjun Rampal. Before we wrap this up, I'd like to advise aspiring models to focus on work and ignore the fame melodrama. That is the path to success!"

— JASMEEN DUGAL