He is one of the most sought after models in the industry today. The winner of Gladrags Manhunt 2003, Muzamil Ibrahim has come a long way.
Currently shooting for Pooja Bhatt’s Dhoka, the actor took time off from his hectic schedule to share a few thoughts with Businessofcinema.com.
How did you land up in the modeling world?
I am a model-actor and winner of the Gladrags Manhunt 2003. I do not hail from a modelling background; I was in my first year at an engineering college in Delhi, when Gladrags came my way. At 18, I was the youngest Gladrags winner. I did my high school from Kashmir and was always a very sporty kind of guy. I am also the winner of the Jeevan Rakshak Padak- the President’s award for bravery, which I received at the age of 10 for saving the life of a fellow student during our swimming classes in school.
At present, besides modelling, I am doing films. I want to do good work wherever I am and whatever I do.
Could you tell us about the film you are doing.
I am making my debut with the Bhatt banner. Dhoka is a film directed by Pooja Bhatt, written by Mahesh Bhatt and produced by Mukesh Bhatt. I play the lead role in the film. This movie is about Kashmir and will be my tribute to the youth of today. I believe that it is the need of the hour to make films that are targeted at the younger generation.
How has the experience of the glamour world been so far?
I never went looking for it. I guess few things are destined to happen and I consider modelling as one of them. It was an extremely proud feeling for me and my family when I won the Gladrags title. I had never imagined or had the slightest clue that I would pursue my career in modelling. I feel grateful to God that I am a successful model. I was given “the most stylish model of the year” award by Zoom and nominated as the best model by Kingfisher and FTV. I have endorsed many big brands and done many commercials and music videos besides walking the ramp for some of the top designers in India.
Did you always want to be an actor?
Not really, but I definitely wanted a creative outlet. After doing well in modelling, I got noticed by some Bollywood producers and offers started pouring in. I was waiting for the right script and the right launch pad. The moment I found one in Pooja Bhatt’s Dhoka, I instantly agreed to it. It’s a great script penned by Mahesh Bhatt.
Have you ever found the profession tough, manipulative and uncertain?
It’s been a roller coaster ride so far. It’s not an easy profession to work in, though the reality seems different from a distance. It demands a lot of hard work and dedication. One requires perfection to survive in the cut throat competition. But when you see people acknowledging your work, it’s more than satisfying. Glamour has given me fame and a sense of responsibility. I’ve learnt a lot in this profession.
