Glamour, flashing cameras and mobs of people may intimidate many. Manasi Moghe, Miss Diva 2013, who represented India in Miss Universe 2013, Moscow, was among the many young women fascinated by the glamour industry, but never thought she would be in the spotlight.
Recalling her college days, Manasi says, “I pursued a degree in electronics and communication from Nagpur University. I loved my college days despite all its restrictions. There was always a feeling of joy. Staying in the hostel and following rules was something I always dreaded, but it added to my experience. I was a good student. I was dedicated to my studies; if I knew exams were approaching, I would sit and study. I never compromised on that.”
Memorable moments
“I used to love the fests,” recalls Manasi. “They were the most awaited part of my academic year. The competitive spirit in everyone filled the air with exuberance. The fests had inter-department competitions and the will to win enthused us. I used to wait for the fests to begin so that my friends and I could go shopping to get decorating material, and also use an excuse to bunk classes,” she says.
“Also, now that I stay in Mumbai, I have to travel for hours together. I miss those times when my college and hostel were right next door. I never realised it then, but now I think it was a blessing in disguise,” she adds.
Aspirations
“I never wanted to be a model or join the industry, though I was fascinated by it,” admits the model. “Since childhood, I remember watching the pageant and thinking about what happens behind the cameras. It was on the spur of the moment that I applied to the Miss India auditions in Nagpur. Being selected boosted my confidence and I could see a career in this industry.”
She elaborates on how her class counsellor stood by her. “During my final year, I had applied for Miss India, which required me to be out of college for around two months, and ironically, during my examinations. My class counsellor helped me the most. The support and encouragement he gave me was incredible. There were times when he tried to justify my absence with my principal,” she says.
Discipline
“College life gives you lessons. You should imbibe them to lead a successful life,” says Manasi. “The learning, which has helped me the most, is discipline. It is essential that an individual be focused on a goal, which will only be possible if one is disciplined. Be it food habits or exercise routines, discipline is the key to sail further. Follow your heart and do what makes you happy. Your career and your profession should give you satisfaction. It is important that parents support their children’s endeavours. Following the herd will never fetch you joy. Work to discover where your happiness lies and pursue it with your heart and soul,” she says.
