When I cut my hair to pursue modelling

A page from the personal diary of Vikramjeet Virk There have been many incidents that have actually made me who I am today. It is diverse experiences in life that help you to attain maturity. One such incident or an act rather, has been etched in my mind for eternity. I was in class 12 and after taking my board exams, I went to Delhi to pursue higher education. That was the time when I realised that modelling and acting is the calling in my life. I told my parents about my plan but they opposed it with all their might. I was tall, smart and wore a turban, as I belong to the Sikh community. Entering the world of modelling would have meant chopping off my hair, which is absolutely not allowed in my religion. I was in a state of dilemma and the urge to follow my passion gripped me with such intensity that I started to spend sleepless nights. One fine day, I decided to cut my hair. I shot my portfolio and auditioned for the Lakme Fashion Week. I had few friends in the modelling industry and they provided me with some contacts and necessary guidance. I cleared the audition and on July 19, 2004, on the day of my birthday, I walked the ramp for the first time. That was the best moment in my life, and since then the journey has been amazing. But till date, I feel a tinge of unhappiness when I see myself in short hair. I am a religious person by nature and visit gurdwara on a regular basis. My parents stopped talking to me for more than a month when they saw me without a turban, and only when they saw me on TV and newspapers, things became normal between us. This incident has taught me that one has to make compromises in order to achieve something in life. I know that whatever I did was for good and I am happy that I am doing well in my career right now, but I think given a choice I would still love to keep my hair long and wear a turban.