Fullname: Syed Abubakkar

City: Bangalore

Age: 23

Qualification: B.Tech

Profession: IT employee and freelancer model

TNV: When and how did you begin modelling? Were you studying or working before then?

SA: When I was in the final year of my engineering, I saw actors/stars visiting my college. It was then my modelling interest started. I entered modelling with the help of my brother Naser.

TNV: Why modelling when you could have settled in for a more stable permanent career?

SA: I discovered that modelling is my passion. Even though I am an engineering graduate, it was modelling that drew my attention more. I am fighting for my passion for staying away from home. I am very happy to be pursuing my passion.

TNV: Tell me about your first assignment. if any How did it happen? What was the experience like?

SA: My first assignment was with Rabik Raja, a young Kerala designer and a dear friend. We met on a social networking site and I walked the ramp for him for Namma Chennai Fashion Show 2.0. It was a great experience for me because I received a lot of appreciation for my work

TNV: What do you feel makes you a good model? Your face? Your body? Your attitude? As opposed to others?

SA: I believe all the 3 traits mentioned above are quite important. Along with those, I feel being genuine and staying clean at heart makes a good human being and success automatically follows.

TNV: Why Rubaru Mr India when there is so many local pageants happening?

SA: I chose this, as it is an international platform to showcase my talent. Many youngsters in my city may now recognize this opportunity and it may open new doors for them too.

TNV: Did Mr India just happen to you along the way – or were you preparing to take part in the pageant?

SA: I have been preparing for Mr India for 1 year now after my friend Bala won the title. I am staying away from my family and focusing on my day job while working for this too.

TNV: Tell us about how you train for it. What is the regimen like? What are the challenges involved?

SA: Earlier, I was skinny but attractive. So, I worked hard to build my body to get the desired looks. I have also been working on developing my communication skills, following Rubaru Mr.India on social networking sites and keeping myself updated.  There are many challenges in life and I believe life is unpredictable. But, I believe that everything happens for the good. One of the biggest challenges I am facing is not getting support from family.

TNV: What makes you feel you should be the chosen one? What’s different about you as a contestant?

SA: I am genuine, open-minded and have a charming attitude. I can easily mingle with people and learn things quickly.

TNV: How will winning the Mr India pageant  affect your life?

SA: I will not have enough words to express my happiness if I win the title and I know it can be a great kick-start to my full-time modelling career. I will be able to prove anybody with passion can become a successful model. It has been my dream to bring talents from rural areas and train aspiring people to become successful in the fashion industry.

TNV: What are your views on ‘Save Girl Child Campaign’ ?

SA: I believe India is still not safe enough for girls. We hear and see many female abuse cases. I strongly believe that only strict laws can curb these crimes. For instance, abuse rates against women are minimal in some Arab countries where they enforce strict laws. Along with that, I also feel that we should educate the girl child and support her under all.