sikhpride

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.