ashion model Arjun
Zander is no stranger to
struggle, but hard work,
determination, and an
undying spirit have seen
him through. Originally
from the mountains of
Pokhara in Nepal, he has
been living and working in
India for the last six years.
He says he always knew he wanted to
be a model, and was ready to overcome
any challenge that came his way. And
challenges he faced galore in breaking
stereotypes of body images and facial
features, the two aspects for which he
faced most rejections as a struggler in the
industry. The 24-year-old has been part
of the modelling pool at Lakme Fashion
Week for a few years now, and has
walked for designers like Shantanu and
Nikhil, Shivan and Narresh, and Sahil
Aneja, apart from walking for several
causes. Over to him:How did modelling come about?
Initially, I found it difficult to get work
due to my Asian features and skinny
body. People weren’t confident of my
abilities. I didn’t give up; where there’s
a will, there’s a way. After several
rejections, I was introduced to Varun
Bahl in India, who gave me my first big
show at Raymond in 2015.How did you overcome your
biggest obstacle when carving
a niche for yourself?
Apart from battling the idea of having
a buff and bulky look, I was laughed at by
the other models, but I didn’t let that get
to me. I appreciate the handwork that
goes into designing, and understand that
my job is to make the piece stand out andhelp a designer sell it. That’s why
the industry started recognising my
work and individuality.How do you think the industry has
changed over the years?
A lot, in terms of the visibility of male
models. In fact, the shift has seen not
only Bollywood A-listers on covers of
magazines, but even models.What advice do you have for
upcoming models?
It’s simple, be yourself. More
importantly, be humble and stay
healthy. And while it’s nice to feel
important, it’s more important to be
nice, so be respectful.PHOTOGRAPH: ARJUN MARK FOR SHIVAN AND NARRESH; STYLED BY: MOHIT RAI; HAIR AND MAKEUP: SAVLEEN MANCHANDATell us about a project you’re
really excited about.
I’m a firm believer in improving and
becoming the best versions of ourselves.
With that in mind, I’ve started my own
style line project called Style Guide by
Zander. It’s just my way of educating
people about what’s new in fashion,
and helping them find their individual
style and sensibilities.Your thoughts on the current
landscape of the fashion industry
in India?
It has evolved. From designers focusing
particularly on menswear, gender-
neutral clothing, and designing for
all body types, to makeup artist and
photographers pushing boundaries, India
is emerging as a fashion hub.What’s your take on inclusivity in
the industry?
There are many fashion shows for the
physically challenged, and we as an
industry are proud to support them.
Recently, I was part of a shoot for
a non-profit for its campaign towards
empowering girls in sports. It feels great
to give back to society in a small way.Arjun Zander, who left the scenic mountain views of
Phokhara, Nepal, to move to Mumbai to make it as
a model, shares his journey with Prachiti ParakhDIAMOND IN THE ROUGH
I WAS LAUGHED AT
BY THE OTHER
MODELS, BUT
I DIDN’T LET THAT
GET TO ME
F
THE BIG STORY