She's a woman who has forayed into a totally different aspect of modeling and with great aplomb! Mega Modelz finds out what drives this Fitness Model. Look out for Amrit Dhaliwal, she'll catch you unawares. If her arresting looks were not enough, her Stunning body simply knocks us out!! A sudden injury propelled her into an arena which was uncharted for any Indian model. And with her we can proudly brag that we too have our Fitness Model, and how!! Though she wasn't born in India , Amrit wears her Indian origin on her sleeve. While she sizzles in every picture of hers, she simply cannot forget her roots, and plans to showcase her Asian traits to the world! So here we have an excerpt of the conversation with the lady herself!!
Mega Modelz : You have been born and brought up outside India ,being a part of the diaspora how has the journey been in establishing yourself?
Amrit Dhaliwal : Born in a Sikh home with loving, liberal parents, I have always been encouraged to pursue my dreams. I am a Cosmetologist/ Esthetician, have a degree in Diagnostic Radiology and B. Comm in Marketing. I am constantly evolving to be the best that I can be. To live an authentic life, it is essential to have a strong will, mental discipline and an inner belief to overcome cultural/physical, political/economical obstacles that may be present. Young women today do not realize how different the lives of women were in the 1960's, who did not enjoy the same freedom of political, educational and personal expression. Those women had to earn them, whereas, mine were inherited. So my journey began way back in the 1960's when a generation of women decided that they should have the same rights as men. There is still a lot of work to liberate women around the world.
MM. : How did you decide to become a fitness-model?
AD : To become a fitness model was never intentionally planned on my end. Due to a personal injury in 2003, my rehab required intense power-lifting to help strengthen my lower back. In just over a year, I transformed my thin frame to a toned athletic physique, competed in my first fitness show in Las Vegas and re-opened the world of modeling after a long hiatus. Now I believe that health is the biggest gift you can give yourself, your family and each other.
MM.: How was your first experience for a photo shoot ?
AD : My first photo shoot was with Raphael Mazzucco; a famous International fashion photographer based out of New York . Working with Raphael was magical. He asked me my ethnic background and inquired if I had any Indian sari's or lehngas. I replied, 'yes'! Before I knew it, I was in the middle of a high fashion shoot. Today modeling has become an outlet for my creative and artistic energy.
MM.:How different is a fitness model from a fashion model?
AD : In my opinion they are quite different. As a Fitness Model the way I pose, look into the camera is a little more technical so that the best angle of my body is showcased. Fitness related assignments can be from advertising a healthy lifestyle, product placement or body part modeling. As a fashion model, there is much less worry with definition of my muscles or abs, hence, my diet is not as strict. Posing for the camera is a lot more freestyle. It is more creative, emotional and artistic.
MM. :Was it difficult for you to create a place for yourself ?
AD :As an East Indian woman but a business woman first I have understood my unique positioning in the Western market which loves the exotic features of South Asian women. And I incorporate elements of East-Indian fashion to my work. Having a secure sense of identity I have always been respected and treated very well in the industry. There has never been a moment of intimidation.
MM. : Have you ever faced any kind of criticism for shooting in swimsuits, especially here in India ?
AD : To my shocking surprise not so much. There has been an overwhelming support from Indians to see a desi woman in fitness, training and yes shooting in swimwear. I guess in certain parts of India or Middle Eastern countries taboos still exist that limit a woman's' freedom of expression. I believe conforming is okay so long it does not take away from my sense of self.
MM. : What would you like to advice the aspiring models who wants to emulate you and your career path?
AD : This industry is tough and many times it's more of a mental game, so trust in your abilities and move forward with confidence. If you do not believe in yourself, then nobody else will. Try to seek as much knowledge about the industry from reputable professionals and listen to their feedback. Get some test shots done and see what that camera picks up. What we see to the naked eye and what the camera sees are two very different visuals, either the camera will love you or not. Try to understand your facial expressions, body movements, lines/angles so that you become one with the lens.
MM.: Would you like to work in Bollywood at some point in time? Or in Indian modeling world?
AD : This is definitely one of my goals. I will be making the shift to Bollywood in December 2008. I know that there are many great actors in India ; however it is time for me to converge all my hard work over the last decade onto the International screen and take on roles that represent a strong willed,
MM. : After firmly establishing yourself in the modeling world,what do you intend to do in the future?
AD : One of my projects I am working on is to provide the Indian market with the latest, safest, most reliable quality nutritional supplements and fitness products from around the world. Being involved in the health and fitness industry as a model/athlete, educated in a medical and business discipline, I can speak to the women as one of their own. I am also pursuing Acting. I have accomplished a lot professionally, physically and artistically in modeling. Now it is time to raise the bar and bring it all to the next level. Also my team and I have been working hard to create a new world of culinary and dining experience. Our concept will provide a unique sensual dining experience and one that will combine the east and west in the most fascinating way!! Stay tuned!!
