When you witness the beginning of a friend's career you feel you are a part of it. I remember a few years back I had the pleasure of observing Chandigarh-bred Ranjit Punia from the threshold of Fashion to one of the most in-demand models. Beginning his career with JJ Valaya's couture showcase, his career has grown in leaps and bounds, having landed campaigns like Mc Dowel, Asian Paint and several music videos. More recently, I had the pleasure of seeing him walk for the coveted finale of India Couture Week showcased by Rohit Bal. And though he has shifted base to Mumbai his career is now being managed by SC Models Management which is present in Europe, Russia, Asia and North America with a stellar International network.

"As soon as I hit my teens, and I started to get inspired by fashion and culture, I knew I wanted to be a model," he reminisces. ''My modelling career began when I sent my portfolio to JJ Valaya's office and they selected me for his couture show. Since then, there was no looking back. I did several music videos including a prolific one shot in Dubai. And now I've shifted base to Mumbai. I'm glad I had the courage to leave my safety zone.'' Ranjit has a sensible head on his shoulders. ''Although I love modelling and acting — a Punjabi film directed by Sunny Mahal is going on the floors soon and my agency is getting me overseas assignments —  I have the option of working with parents in real estate! That gives me luxury of choosing only the best projects.''

Does he have any advice for aspiring models, I ask him? ‘'Please choose modeling as a profession only if you have the requisite facial features, height and body. Only then can you survive because acting and modelling is not easy!'' Before I sign off, I ask him, how important is Fashion Week from a model's perspective? His answer is candid. ''It is very important for a model’s career as designers, brands and fashion editors notice you, and work multiplies.''

As I wrap up this Interview, I have no doubt that friends and industry high rollers appreciate Ranjit's attitude — he appreciates his advantages yet is down-to-earth, polite and disciplined. That in itself will take him places.

— JASMEEN DUGAL