For a hunk of the world

He may be the grandson of a former minister in UP with strong political clout back home, but where Kushal Tandon has been making waves is an arena far removed from state politics – male modelling.

“Just because I don’t open up in my first or second meeting with people it doesn’t mean I have an attitude problem,” begins Kushal.

But it’s his attitude, the right kind, and confidence that impressed judges to declare him as title winner at the Grasim Mr India contest in 2005. At 22 years, he’s also among the youngest ever to win this coveted title.

Kushal is now gearing to participate at the Mr World contest to be held later this month in Venezuela, South America. “I want to win. I’m working out twice a day to get in shape,” he says.

With a string of ad campaigns already under his belt and Bollywood knocking at his door, Kushal is confident of making it big in the glamour business.

“In my first year as a model, I’ve already walked for some of the biggest designers and choreographers, not to mention my debut at the Lakme India Fashion Week,” he says.

Kushal sums up his journey so far when he says, “It’s been a great experience. Whatever I’ve achieved, I’ve done so the hard way. I want to be the best.”

KUSHAL: a man of many talents

• A national level silver medallist in freestyle swimming
• Represented his state in football
• Played hockey for his state
• Youngest man to win Grasim Mr India