This chocolate-skinned model created waves in the Indian fashion scene and is now taking the television screen by storm. Checking the party meter at high-end events, this Commerce graduate still has the ramp calling out to her. Model and TV host Nina Manuel is riding the high waves. Hosting shows like ‘Nina After Nine’ and ‘After Hours’, she is probably the hottest lifestyle correspondent on Indian airtime. Don’t go by her passion for fashion, for this dusky damsel has studied law for two years alongside a fashion and merchandise course from London. Recently in Bangalore for a fashion event, Nina spoke to Metrolife about her various jobs, Bangalore’s party meter and more.

On Bangalore...
Although Mumbai is my first love, the fabulous weather of Bangalore excites me. Models here throw no attitude. Some in Mumbai have a chip on their shoulder. Although everything shuts at 11:30 pm here, there is a certain energy in the air.

Being chocolate-skinned...
I never faced any problem because I wanted to be a ramp model. Dark-skinned people always stand out on the ramp. On joining, I had set a time frame for myself. But things clicked for me soon.

Model-turned-show host...
Lubna Adams was shooting for Zee Trendz during Lakme Fashion Week. I was simply watching and loved the job. Soon I got a call from Pradeep Guha's office.
There was no audition, no rehearsal. I got ‘Midnight Manuel’. I am trying hard to do something different. I see TV as a progress from modelling. Both modelling and anchoring give me an adrenaline rush.

Bangalore's party meter...
It's a bit strange that everything shuts at 11 pm. Mumbai's night life begins at that time. However, I have been to some house parties in Bangalore, which go on till the wee hours. They really rock. Bangaloreans love to dance. In Mumbai, people just want to lounge around. There is an amazing energy in this City, despite the early deadline.

Bollywood calling...
I’ve never made an effort but I am open to interesting item songs. I would like to do a 'She Bangs' by Ricky Martin. In fact, I am taking Bollywood dance lessons.

Wardrobe
malfunctions...
I call it a natural calamity. No one is to blame. International designers also have had similar goof-ups.
India on the fashion map...
We have a long way to go. The industry is getting to be very professional. Our shoots end in a day. We don’t need any rehearsals. At times, we do three shows in three different cities. Indian designers are good but not on par with their international counterparts.

Skinny look...
You will not be a model for life. So, don't become sick. Stay fit. I eat healthy and exercise a lot.

Advice to aspiring models...
Keep your head firmly on your shoulders. Modelling is short-lived. Be confident. If there is any bad influence, don't hide it from your parents. Don't get lured by the money. I have said no to many jobs despite the money.

On future plans...
I am a shopoholic. I love accessories more than clothes. I love jewellery, trendy leg warmers and trinklets.
I plan to open an accessories store targeted towards college students. Besides that, a huge shocker is on it’s way for people this year. I have signed some big modelling deals that will come as a surprise. I don't want to be just a model. I want to be Nina Manuel.

SBK