Model Kiran Varghese on finding his fit in the Indian fashion industry

Can you tell us about your journey shaping your identity?

Kiran Varghese [KV]: I am a contemporary ballet dancer and I always had a feminine posture or look which did not fit in-to the societal gender norms. I used to hate that side of me when I was studying and I always used to pretend like a different person. But when I started working as a stylist in Bangalore after my studies, My close friends Tania and Sam, who I met at work, asked me to get into modelling and told me I have really great features. The features that I was always insecure about. And when I started modelling, I realised that I am beautiful and my authentic self brings the best out of me to the table.

With a career path that is heavily influenced by the role of dress in society, do you feel that fashion has had an impact on your personal identity?

KV: Fashion has always given me the freedom to express my identity, I always dressed up colourfully even when I was a kid and never got judged just because everyone thought its a trend.

What has your experience been in the Indian fashion industry and how it has accommodated the LGBTQIA+ community?

KV: The fashion industry in India is evolving and are very accepting from my experience. The industry is trying their best to accommodate folks from the LGBTQIA+ community. There is definitely a big difference from what I have seen as a kid and now. But I also feel that, there are a lot of talent from the community that are not getting enough exposure as they deserve.

Even with ample room to make further progress, the fashion industry has become relatively accepting as compared to the past decade with a new focus on representation, according to your observations, when did things take a turn and what do you feel is the reason behind this movement of ally-ship in fashion?

KV: The first runway I saw, where the LGBTQIA+ themed show was Burberry. And I noticed a lot of models and celebrities from the community on the show. But I also think that fashion industry always had a better representation and acceptance for the LGBTQIA+ community than any other industry.

Do you feel that your presence in the fashion scene has given you a platform and a sense of responsibility to perhaps amplify or vocalise the issues at hand?

KV: Recently one of my followers on Instagram texted me saying “you’re an inspiration to a lot and you give me hope that I can do things and be something too” and that really made me happy. I also want to tell folks from the community, who think that things don’t work for them like for others that nothing is impossible, if you have the will to do it.

How do you think you can utilise your influence to support the community?

KV: I can show the people from the community that this industry is very accepting and everybody has a chance. I think that will help them to be themselves and not pretend to be somebody else, to be supported.

What are some of your passions and hobbies beyond the modelling world?

KV: I love to dance. Dance is something that has always helped me express myself. I also like fashion styling and to paint.

Is there a dream designer you’d like to work with?

KV: Sabyasachi was the Indian designer and by God’s grace, I got to shoot for the brand. Dior and Versace are my other two dream brands – I will die to work for them.

What’s a trend you’d like to try but haven’t yet?

KV: I wanted to really try the grunge trend, where I want to tattoo every part of my body and dye my hair. But I never got to try it out.

3 items from your wardrobe that describe your personal style?

KV: I have transformed from a colourful to a basic style person. My white basic ganji (vest), blue jeans and my all-time favourite black boots comprise my everyday outfit.

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