Bhubaneswar: Proving that beauty is beyond size, Odisha girl Payal Choudhury has become one of the finalists in the Ms Plus Size India 2019 pageant.
Payal, a Journalism and Mass Communication student is also a good dancer.
“Initially, I had no interest in modeling. I love dancing and perform on the stage. After every performance, the audience says ‘you are dancing so well with this kind of body’,” said Payal.
Most people with my kind of size hesitate to perform on stage, she said.
“Some people also tease me while I am performing. But it has never bothered me or deterred me from dancing. Encouraged by the overall positive response to my dance performances, I thought of giving modeling a try. My mother also inspired me a lot. She says that I have a pretty face and would make a good model,” said Payal.
“I got to know about the competition from the social media. Earlier, the competition was based in North India. But now, it is a pan-India competition. I saw the advertisement and what the winners achieved from the last competitions and decided to apply. I gave an audition in Bengaluru on May 25,” she added.
“The finale will be held on June 30 at New Delhi. But I will go there on June 27. We have grooming sessions on June 27, 28 and 29,” said Payal.
About the preparations, she said, “I am focusing on the basic things now. Like, I am taking care of my skin and hair. I am practicing my gait and working on my general knowledge.”
Payal is pursuing her Masters in Journalism and Mass Communication in Christ University, Bengaluru. She completed her graduation in the same subject from Ghaziabad and did her schooling in DAV School in Unit-VIII here.
“I want to get into fashion journalism. I also want to be a body positivity activist. If I win this competition, then I will be more authentic and convincing. People will listen to me. I can get a tag out of this contest,” said Payal.
“My mother always instilled confidence in me about modeling. She is my inspiration. Professionally, I follow international Plus Size model Ashley Graham. I want to become like her,” said Payal.
Payal’s native place is Phulnakhara, near Bhubaneswar. Her parents are also very happy with this achievement.
“I am really proud to say that this is a wonderful platform to prove that beauty is beyond size. For me, body positivity is nothing but accepting it and changing it into an asset. Plus size should be your positive point. I am really excited about the finale,” said the 22-year-old.
