Punjabi kids finding a charm for modelling

Chandigarh, May 20 : With a growing number of television channels opening up a plethora of career opportunities, several children in Punjab are motivated to take to modelling to gain entry into TV serials or a career in advertising.

Young persons here are in no mood to miss the bus.

Five-year-old Vanya loves playing with toys like other kids of her age, but she is keen to learn acting.

Dr. Shivani Sidana, Vanya's mother, says: "Television channels are looking for smart people, particularly children."

Vanya's parents dream big and look forward to her getting a role in advertising, television and films.

Hoardings on the roadsides motivate everyone.

Today, there are several modelling and finishing schools which invite individuals for personality grooming. Professional models teach at these schools about finer aspects of walking the ramp, etiquette, and communication.

Many beauty queens, who made a name for themselves, have come from Punjab - Priyanka Chopra, Gul Panang and Manpreet Brar to name only a few.

Shriya Singh, Director of the Storm Modelling and Finishing school, says: "There are few standard modelling and finishing schools. We want to educate children and teach them different aspects of modelling- ramp, runway and still. We are introducing a new programme for children. I feel it's a venture that lot of children can get into with the support of their parents.

Tahil, Karan and Himanshu - all students of a finishing school reached the location of a forthcoming Punjabi film to gain practical knowledge. They even take time off to interact and get tips from the actor and stand-up comedian Gurpreet Ghuggi.

Karan chahal, an aspiring model-actor, says: "We were very scared to face the camera and perform in front of people. The training that we receive here helps to overcome the fear of facing the camera. We learn how to go for the auditions, how to walk, clothes you should wear and the hairstyle you should have."

Himanshu Sethi, another aspiring model-actor, says: "There are lots of opportunities coming up. If you really want to get into this field, you can do T.V. modelling and after that you can get into T.V. serials and lot more things." By Ashwini Kaushal

ANI