'I want to be on the big screen'

She started with building her portfolios with various photographers when she was in 10th standard. Thanks to Facebook, producers from MTV’s show India’s Next Top Model spotted her and approached Akanksha Sharma, who is now the youngest contestant, amongst the top-six on the show.

“I have always been interested in dancing and acting competitions. Modelling is something I always wanted to pursue,” says Sharma.

The show is hosted by Lisa Haydon with Dabboo Ratnani, Anusha Dandekar as judges, and Neeraj Gaba as the grooming expert.

“Till now, I have learnt a lot of things about myself which I didn’t know earlier. Apart from learning how to be a high-end and commercial fashion face, I also gained the strength to perform difficult tasks like walking with a tyre in hand,” Sharma, who has been among the top three for most tasks on the show till now, tells Metrolife. The 20-year-old Gurgaon-based aspiring model is currently pursuing Bachelors in Architecture from Indraprastha University.

However, competing with elder contestants has not been much of a struggle, says Sharma.
“I have been one of the most loved girls on the show. They treat me nicely and guide me towards having the right attitude for being a model. But I have also seen that they don’t take me seriously and in such situations, I make sure that my performance speaks for me,” she adds.

On being asked if reality shows help struggling models, she says, “For a struggling model, getting selected for a reality show and being on air is very important. Today, so many people recognise me. Apart from fame, the show has also helped me in transforming and growing as a model.”

While winning the show is currently on top of her bucket list, Sharma looks forward to getting into acting in the near future. “After completing my studies, I will go to Mumbai and will take acting and dancing classes. I even got a call from a TV channel for a lead role but I refused it. I want to be on the big screen.”