Opening Doorz

By A Staff Writer | Opening Doorz Editorial | July 03, 2024

An Indian born in Egypt who spent her school life in the land of the pyramids. However, she does not walk like an Egyptian although she ventured to walk the runway! Not meeting with much success there, falling short by an inch, she decided to take off from the runway, literally!

Meet Simran Bachani, who moved to Mumbai, the city of dreams in 2017 for her college education, and was immediately caught in the whirlwind of modelling. After a brief stint as a model where she experienced immediate roadblocks, Simran Bachani decided on other options, moving to an Events company and now as a Cabin Crew with Air Arabia.

“Honestly, when I moved to Bombay in 2017 for college, I started getting involved in a lot of co-curricular activities, including fashion shows. The positive response I received from these events encouraged me to give modelling a try. Within the first two months, I joined my college’s fashion team, and we won several fashion show events. That success motivated me to pursue modelling professionally,” reveals Simran Bachani, whose father had moved to Egypt for business in 1995 along with his wife.

Opening Doorz caught up with the affable and soft-spoken, Simran Bachani on one of her trips to Mumbai.

Excerpts

Let’s begin with your initial dream of becoming a model. What inspired you to pursue this career path?

The hoardings in the city are full of glamorous faces. I was immediately attracted to this. In college, I started getting involved in a lot of co-curricular activities, including fashion shows. We won several fashion shows and that success motivated me to pursue modelling professionally.

What challenges did you face while pursuing modeling, and how did you overcome them?

There was a lot of competition, and my height was a disadvantage as I was 5′ 4″, while the minimum height requirement was 5′ 5″. Despite feeling dejected, I focused on other modelling opportunities like print shoots and photography. No matter how close I was getting to my goal and polishing myself, I was always an inch away, technically.

Did you feel dejected, being just an inch away?

Of course, there was a little bit of sadness in me…  I kept thinking that if I was taller something would have changed. It did affect me but I decided to work my way through and explore other options. Eventually, in 2021, Miss India reduced the height requirement to 5′ 4″, which was a breakthrough for me. That was like a hallelujah moment!

Have you had any bad experiences in the modelling industry?

Not bad experiences, but it took time to establish myself. Initially, a lot of the work involved collaborations rather than paid gigs, which was challenging. It’s important to know your worth and ask for it once you have the experience.

How was it adjusting from Egypt to India?

It was a welcome change. Indians are very welcoming, and my experience in Mumbai was positive. It was different from just visiting during summer vacations. Enrolling in college here helped me adapt and enjoy my time.

Which college did you attend and what did you study?

I attended Narsee Monjee College, studying Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS).

What led you to transition from modeling to working as a cabin crew? Was it planned or did opportunities unfold differently?

During COVID-19, the modelling opportunities dwindled, so I started applying for jobs internationally and got an opportunity with an events company in Dubai. Eventually, I transitioned to working as a cabin crew for Air Arabia, which has been an exciting and fulfilling role.

How was your experience working in the events company in Dubai?

It was my first corporate job, and it was a good learning experience. The skills I developed in modelling, like working with different teams, helped me in the corporate environment.

How has your modelling experience benefited your role as cabin crew?

The ability to work with diverse teams and handle different situations has been invaluable. As a cabin crew, I meet new teams and passengers every day, and the skills I honed in modelling help me manage these interactions smoothly. Team building and handling different situations are crucial skills in both fields.

Any surprising moments as a cabin crew?

I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the diversity of people I meet. It’s taught me not to stereotype and to appreciate the uniqueness of each person.

What do you find most fulfilling about your current job?

Traveling the world and having my place in Sharjah is for me a very humbling experience. The opportunity to explore new places and cultures is very rewarding.

Do you have any advice for individuals considering a career transition, especially from modelling to a different profession?

India is a good market for models, but there’s a lot of competition, especially in Mumbai. If it’s your passion, pursue it, but always have a backup plan. Modelling can be an on-and-off job, so it’s wise to have something else to rely on. Balancing multiple interests can provide stability and open up more opportunities.

Image Credits: Simran Bachani

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