Alankrita Sahai, Miss India Earth 2014 is a woman of substance who believes in living life to its fullest. She is the first Indian to win 7 titles at the Miss Earth pageant held in the Philippines and is also an inspiration to many, those who wish to live their passion and dream as their profession. Alankrita has always walked the unconventional paths of life and that is what defines her courage and mantra for success too. In a free-wheeling chat with TMM, she talks about her journey and her most recent brainchild Chandigarh Horse Show.

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am an artist and an interior consultant. I come from a family where personal growth and evolution have always been emphasized along with developing your own individual personality while inculcating your values and adapting to your changing environment. I am like water, free-flowing and shapeshifting! I love my work and I’m proud to be the first Indian to win 7 titles for my nation. My family is my backbone and I love what I do. Also, I’m starting my own studio which will help women and men transform themselves and their lives.

You have been associated with the beauty industry for so long. How has the industry changed over the years?
Yes, it has changed over the years.  I guess social media has been the game-changer. Now, beauty standards have changed and people have become more realistic. Awareness amongst the generation of what beauty truly is without filters and Photoshop is taking place every day.  Yet, of course, there are brands and people who are stuck in the rigmarole of fair, dark tall, short, fat, thin which is unacceptable. There are all sorts of standards set by actors, bloggers, influencers, and many others. But I believe that we still have a long way to go. And things are changing. Standards are set by us; hence we need to be the change we want to see.

How and when did the idea of the Chandigarh Horse Show happen?
It happened while riding the horse and the number of questions I would get asked about how can we ride, can we come to see the horses, what place is this, and various other queries. This got us all to think that the last show was in 2007, the city needs to see something they haven’t seen in such a long time with a tinge of entertainment. Riding and horses are a crucial part of Punjab history that we had to have the city connect and see the beauty of these regal magnificent beings, making it accessible to all. The notion that horses are just for the royalty had to be eliminated. Elevating horsemanship was the key goal for our lovely riders and teams. This is one sport where men and women compete together, so why shouldn’t we promote equestrian sports where there is no discrimination. And it was a success because it was of the people, by the people, and for the people.

Tell us a bit about your love for horses.
I love animals in general. Horses have been a part of my life for many years. They are beautiful, intelligent, fast, strong, and loving, and they teach you patience and perseverance. Many battles were won on the back of a horse. So a horse is also a man’s best friend. The way they express their love is unlike any other animal and you have to have an understanding with your horse given the size he/she can’t jump on you to express their love. It’s the small gestures they make. A horse can change your life. They make you wiser, brave, and kinder.

With the success of the Chandigarh Horse Show, are you planning to explore other cities too?
Yes, I am! Moving forward, there is a lot more to happen, and will be revealing it soon.

Acting, modeling, and entrepreneurship, you have tasted success at all platforms. What excites you the most and why?
All of them do. Hence, you will find me enjoying every bit of what I do. It’s tasteful and engaging. I love what I do as my heart is in it. I’m passionate and a perfectionist. I enjoy them all because it gives me perspective on how much life can offer me and what all I could do in one lifetime. I get to work with the best of people and teams. I get to be different characters in one life. I get to travel and learn new things. I get to give back with what I earn too. So it’s a full circle! It’s all connected for me.

You are the first Indian to win 7 titles at the Miss Earth pageant held in the Philippines. Any tips you would like to share with aspiring models?
Be as unique as you can be. Don’t judge yourself or be too harsh on yourself by looking at others on Instagram. Be courageous and be grateful. Live your dreams and don’t just dream them. Also, love yourself and give yourself time. Don’t be in a hurry or in a rat race as life is free-flowing, be like water, it takes shape of any container you pour it into. Believe in yourself no matter what and don’t forget to be kind even when others are not. Confidence is the key to success, and gratitude, dedication, and perseverance are the ingredients. Read and educate your mind and be ready mentally and emotionally to take a fall or a bow.

What fitness means to you and how do you create work-life balance?
Being fit is a lifestyle. Water, workout, wonderful food, and wishful thinking are my keys to creating a balanced life. Fitness means a lot to me but I’m not going obsessive about having 6 packs. I believe my mind, body, and soul should not feel heavy and should be in sync.  My gut should be healthy. That’s the core to your good health. So I give my work my everything and I can switch to making sure my loved ones know I’m right there for them. I have always been able to manage my work and my personal life. At times it can be tricky but then again it’s always about having your priorities in place. We all get stressed and lose sight and balance, but we must always get back up and keep marching forward.