Bina Punjani is the Art Director, Bina Punjani Salons, Academy, Bridals – Goa.
She is the founder and Art Director of Bina Punjani Hair Studio, Goa. The brand currently has 4 salons, a stand-alone academy, as well as a Bridal hair and Makeup vertical for destination weddings. The brand is known for it’s international quality of work, and consistency across its locations and teams. It is clearly differentiated and is considered to be one of the most exciting brands in the industry today.
Bina started her career in the UK in 2002, and trained and worked with Toni & Guy in London for over 5 years, during which she was a part of the elite Toni & Guy Breakthrough Team and a winner of the Wella Colour Trophy in Dubai.
After returning to India in 2008, she worked as the Creative Head of Looks Salons in Delhi for 3 years before moving to Goa to start her own brand in 2011. She is a jury member on upcoming Rubaru Mr India contest to be held in Goa. The Neutral View spoke to her exclusively about the event.
What does “Rubaru Mr India” signify to you in addition to- of course- a search for India’s most desirable man?
It signifies the coming of age of the Indian male. As someone who is part of the hair and beauty industry, I see a clear change in the way men present and portray themselves. Men in general are more particular about how they present themselves and grooming is a big part of that. In that sense, a Mr India contest is now more mainstream and more representative of the Indian man than ever before.
In particular, what is your role and responsibilities in “Rubaru Mr India”?
As a hair and makeup partner, my role is the guide the contestants about how they can increase their visual impact and appeal with the help of the right hairstyling, grooming and makeup solutions.
As a juror how would you advise contestants to gear up for the pageant keeping in mind most of them hail from villages and small towns? What should they focus on?
Defintely their communication, persona and confidence. A confident man stands out, and that’s what they should focus on – their positives and what gives them the edge.
What are the qualities you are looking for in the contestants to shortlist them as finalists?
The 3 As – Appearance, Attitude and Ability
One of the big fears during a pageant interview is what if the judges ask something that the contestant just doesn’t know. In such a situation, how would you, as juror, want him to respond?
First, take a moment to nuderstand the question and think about it. Someone who reflects and comes up with a quality response wins over someone who replies quickly with a substandard response. Even after that, if the y genuinely do not know about the topic, they should be frank about it and ask for a different question – jurors appreciate honesty. It is better than making up an answer that is poor.
Are there any tips you would like to share with them to calm last minute nerves?
Think about how they are already winners, having beaten their competition to get to this stage. Focus on their positives. Or maybe just listen to music on their headphones!
Most boys focus on being in shape and working out… what is the importance of skincare? Is there any skin care regimen that the boys should follow?
Good skin and good hair is a must in today’s day and age, the skincare regime depends on the skin type. Generally, a good face wash with a moisturiser works for most regular skin types.
Based on your experience in pageantry… how would you be grooming the shortlisted boys for the finale?
As a hair and makeup specialist, I would focus on showing them how they can use the right hair and makeup to significantly enhance their appearance, and give a boost to their confidence.
