A Rare Combination from Pondy
The modelling industry is a star-studded, glamorous world many dream of entering. Starting his journey from Pondicherry, Vikram Raja began modelling five years ago and now appears in TV commercials. From the very beginning he had to go through a lot of toil, and still believes he has to keep his career at its peak. A little training from the legendary Karthik Srinivasan was all he needed. Vikram Raja catches up with Gayathri Krishnaraj to share his journey.
“Working in the field of modelling is like a mobile app, we should always be updated according to the current trend and fashion. It also includes being groomed and fit enough all the time, and much more.”
How were your initial days in modelling?
In the beginning I was doing a few commercials for a small educational institute. I got paid a meagre sum of ₹30, but the experience inspired me to get into modelling. During my career I had to keep shifting from Pondy to Chennai for auditions, and sometimes I would even head back to Pondy the same day.
What are the hardships you face in the industry?
Roaming around with a pile of portfolios and maintaining that ‘always fit’ look, grooming myself, posing for pictures and knowing how to carry myself in the industry.
Tell us about your first shoot.
My first portfolio was shot in Cochin, Kerala, and my very first assignment was for Offbeat – Pondicherry. It was for an e-commerce site.
One thing you regret not getting to do?
I missed the chance of acting in a few commercials because I fell sick at one point. One important commercial I missed was 7UP, after which I got the commercial for BSA cycles.
How did your first break happen?
I submitted my portfolio to a few coordinators but nothing really clicked. It took a while for them to respond, but then I managed to get a portfolio done by Karthik Srinivasan. His wife was conducting a workshop, and I got selected in it — that’s where it all started. I met Karthik sir and many other celebrities too.
What is the toughest part of being in this industry?
Working in the field of modelling is like a mobile app — we should always be updated according to the current trend and fashion. It also includes being groomed and fit enough all the time, and much more.
You have to spend most of your earnings on grooming and other aspects. How do you manage?
I am into graphic designing and make good money out of that, and I spend it on modelling — and vice versa.
Is there any particular physique required to be a model? Which commercial was very difficult?
A model should be tall, with well-defined abs and a gym-toned body. The NAC Jewellers TV ad — in that I did a role alongside the popular South Indian actress Trisha.
Is being a male model an advantage?
It totally depends on your luck. To be honest, the industry often prefers North Indian male models over South Indians because of skin tone and looks — but when it comes to female models, they are fine with any complexion.
What are your future plans?
I have a supporting actor role coming up in August, so I hope that goes well.
Originally published in Women Exclusive, January 2017 (print). Transcribed here for readability.