'India is just as vulnerable as Pakistan'

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This thirty year old model got into the business by chance. Discovered by a designer five years ago, the charming Mithun Rodwittiya who also happens to be an NID graduate was lucky to have side stepped the cut-throat rat-race. Balancing two careers at the moment, Mithun works as a senior manager in charge of Business Development and Sales when he is not modelling.

He spoke to rediff.com at Day Two of the Lakme Fashion Week.

How has the recession affected you?
It hasn't affected me -- I still get paid the same. But it has definitely affected the industry. There are lesser shows and fewer buyers. Designers aren't very sure about whether to showcase their collections right now or to wait for a bit. For me, modelling has always been a question of choice. I don't do every show that comes my way. I think that may be part of the reason why I haven't faced the brunt of the recession. Some designers have modified their lines and prices to survive the season, while others are standing by their style and quality.

What style do you feel is 'in' at the moment?
My personal style is casual. I love my jeans and T-shirts. I try to wear them as much as possible. As far as trends go, smart casuals are in. And for Mumbai's climate, cool, bright colours are great.

As a career, is modelling rewarding? How long do you anticipate staying in the industry?
I have chosen to balance it with another career. Modelling is good for those looking for a career in acting. I like having another side to me. And we all know that modelling has a shelf life. As long as possible, I'd like to do both. Also, there is this mind set that models don't need to use their brains, but that's not true. We are very important vehicles for the designer's work -- and it's our job to make the clothes look fabulous. We have to convey the mood and theme of the show and ultimately seduce the buyers.

Do you think we have too many fashion shows in India?
Not at all! We should have many more! (laughs) Our country is such an eclectic mix of culture, cuisine and clothes, that we need to allow designers to showcase their work. I think there shouldn't be just two seasons -- we should have one more in the middle.

However I hope that the obvious rift between the Delhi Fashion Week and Lakme Fashion Week, is bridged soon. Because I think if the two got together, they could do some amazing shows together. For instance, consider this: The Lakme fittings were on March 24 -- bang in the middle of DFW and WLIFW. That just ensured that no model could participate in both! The designers are cordial to one another at face value, but I'm sure there must be some friction, otherwise we wouldn't be having these problems. And we are caught in the crossfire. I'd love to do Delhi Fashion Week, but it is tough with all this stuff happening.

Any thoughts on the upcoming elections? Who do you think can lead India in the future?
I heard this joke the other day: Like the IPL, for security reasons, the elections should also be moved out of the country. When I heard that the IPL won't be taking place in India, I was really sad. I'm going to write about this on my blog soon. India is just as vulnerable as Pakistan. Our politicians are so concerned about fighting one another, they have forgotten that they are here to protect the country. My hometown is Baroda -- and when I heard that Narendra Modi might become the PM, I was very worried. I am an athiest by choice and don't like these man-made divisions. They've forgotten that we are a secular democracy. I think, in today's scenario, Congress is the best and safest option.

Finally, you know it is going to be asked, how do you maintain your body?
I am a total fitness freak. I love working out. I've also been kickboxing for a long time now, so that contributes to my fitness as well.I spend 1.5 hours in the gym everyday, plus I play squash. And I also have a hardcore cardio routine. I think if you really want to do something, you find the time for it.

Text: Insiyah Vahanvaty | Photograph: Sanjay Sawant

Also see: Genelia, Tusshar walk for Manisha Malhotra

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