Manak Singh
In the Modern world of 21th century, many new professions have become popular. Modeling is one of
these professions. Unfortunately many Sikh boys and girls have entered this profession after tempering with
their facial and head hair which they are supposed to keep intact as their articles of faith. However, there
are bold youngsters among the Sikhs, who remaining in Sikhi saroop and even then full fill their ambition
to go for modeling. One such youth is Manak Singh who was featured by The Gentlemen’s quarterly. This
Keshdhari Sikh has also posed for big companies like Canali and Tommy Hilfiger for the world famous
GQ Magazine.The Gentlemen Quarterly is a fashion magazine with no connection to Sikhi, however’s its
decision to feature a Sikh model has been welcomed by all. Manak is highly confident about himself and feels
proud of his Sikh identity. He says, “I have always been and am very proud to be a full Keshdhari Sikh and
am very glad that the fashion industry is moving away from the stereotypical model look. I hope I am able
to inspire the Sikh youth to believe in themselves and always know that there is no field in which one can
say – Sikhs will not be able to excel here.” In a photo exhibition in February this year in New York, Manak’s
photograph was included to showcase The Triumphs and challenges for their community even 15 years after
9/11. The identity problem is not confined to USA, but also exists in other countries including India. The
caption here in for this role model modeling sensation reads as under. “I’m the only turbanned Sikh model to
have walked for leading designers like Rajesh Pratap Singh and JJ Valaya. I’m a Keshdhari Sikh, I don’t trim
my beard or hair. I’m often asked if I’d be at ease posing without my turban. But this is my identity.Through
my work, i want to tell younger Sikhs that you can look good without cutting your hair.” These inspiring
words call all the Singhs to standout and the fashion industry will welcome you with open arms. Let us be
proud of such brave and talented youth.
