Full Name: Abhilash Tikhe
City: Pune
Age: 26
Qualification: BSc (Comp Sci)
Profession: Working in a corporate company
TNV: When and how did you begin modelling? Were you studying or working before then?
AT: I am doing modelling since 9 months now. I started first by participating in a regional pageant where I was the winner. I was also working in a corporate firm simultaneously.
TNV: Why modelling when you could have settled in for a more stable permanent career?
AT: Modelling is passion and I wanted to do it since college days and it always attracted me as a career option. I enjoy doing it and it keeps me contented and satisfied.
TNV: Tell us about your first assignment, if any, and how did it happen? What was the experience like?
AT : As I entered this field it was always hard to get assignments. One fine day my friend took me for a clothing brand audition where I got selected for a brand shoot. I had an amazing experience shooting for a brand and it was something which I always wanted to do.
TNV: What do you feel makes you a good model? Your face? Your body? Your attitude? As opposed to others?
AT: As a good model I have this attitude of believing in myself with whatever comes in my way and accomplishing it to the fullest.
TNV: Why Rubaru Mr India when there are so many local pageants happening?
AT: Rubaru Mr India is the most prestigious pageant in India. It provides me with a wider audience to reach out to and more opportunities as compared to other pageants.
TNV: Did Mr India just happen to you along the way – or were you preparing to take part in the pageant?
AT: Mr India was always a dream since 2016. I had been preparing for it for years but never could completely satisfy myself with the preparation. It was this year I felt I was well prepared and decided to appear for it.
TNV: Tell us about how you train for it. What is the regimen like? What are the challenges involved?
AT: Hard work and discipline are the key factors in my preparation. The routine is simple yet strict. I work on my weakness and strengthen my skills. The only challenge is to not back down despite the obstacles.
TNV: What makes you feel you should be the chosen one? What’s different about you as a contestant?
AT: I am unique in my way of thinking. My attitude is what sets me apart. I know to keep moving ahead despite any circumstances.
TNV: How will winning the Mr India pageant will affect your life?
AT: Winning Rubaru Mr India will help me to reach out to more and more people. I want to be an inspiration and influencer and motivate others.
TNV: What are your views on ‘Save Girl Child’ campaign?
AT: The best way to save the girl child is to educate our society on the importance of a girl’s existence. Awareness regarding this can be done through NGOs and time to time campaigns for the donation of funds to promote girls and make them independent so that they are no longer treated as a burden.