While women in Pakistan have hundreds of restrictions
imposed on their movement and dressing, it hasn’t stopped
the young girls in the country to step out on the ramps.
Vaneeza Ahmed is one of them and she isn’t just another
Pakistani model. She is currently one of the
hottest models in Pakistan and is keen on extending her
popularity on Indian shores too. Vaneeza is also currently
dating Ali of the music group Junoon. In Delhi for the
Bridal Asia show, she spoke about herself
and the modelling scene in Pakistan.
Is it a well-paying profession?
Is this your maiden visit to India?
No it is not. In fact, this is my tenth visit to the
country. The last time I was in India was for J.J. Valaya’s
fashion show in Mumbai.
How did you get into modelling?
It was a chance that I took four years back. I do
not consider myself very beautiful. I have small eyes
and a nose that extends way too long (laughs). But I have
always believed that modelling is all about attitude.
It is not beauty alone. I tried my luck and succeeded.
Is modelling a career that the youth in Pakistan opt
for?
It was not so till some time back. Most of the models
on the ramp were not really what one would call as model
material. It was a desperate situation for the fashion
and modelling industry in Pakistan. But of late, more
and more young people are coming forward.
Modelling in Pakistan is still part-time, in the sense
that there are only seven or eight major shows in Pakistan
and you cannot sustain yourself doing just that. In comparison
to India, the fashion scene in Pakistan is really very
small. So most of the models do it on a part-time basis.
As far as the money goes, I think the models are paid
reasonably well.
How do you keep yourself busy in the off-season?
I act in some television serials. I haven’t given
a go at films in Pakistan for the simple reason that I
have yet to be offered a good role. My acting career keeps
me busy throughout the year. In Pakistan, tax is levied
on all kind of entertainment shows. So most of the organisers
opt for musical shows rather than have a fashion show.
Do you see opportunity for Pakistani models working
in India?
Why not? There is very little to distinguish between
us. We have a similar culture and can relate to each other.
There is a lot of work in India for a model. And this
time I am definitely going to do some networking and circulate
my portfolio around. I hope you will see me more often
on the Indian ramp.
