'It is not about me anymore but India.'

by Benson Philip | Oct 21, 2016, 11:52 IST
Follow On
'It is not about me anymore but India.'
He is handsome, passionate and hardworking. Mr India finalist Jitesh Thakur is all set to embark on a journey to Mr Supranational 2016. Jitesh who is a perfect mix of charm and intellect will represent India in the first edition of Mr Supranational 2016. In a candid conversation with us, the model-turned-actor reveals the secret to his recent win and more.

Congratulations on winning Mr Supranational India 2016! How does it feel to represent your country at an international pageant ?

I am totally honoured to be able to represent my country at an international pageant. The feeling has not sunk in yet. The journey for me begins now as it is not about me anymore but it is about India and nothing is bigger than this. So I am more determined than ever before. I am going to be more disciplined and I'm eagerly looking forward to an amazing journey as Mr Supranational India 2016.

You have been a part of the Mr India pageant before. Does it add to your advantage when you are participating in an international pageant ?

Definitely! Being a part of the Mr India pageant adds to my advantage as the pageant is done on a grander scale where we interact with the best minds in the industry. My experience in Mr India was amazing as I learnt so much. I am now well aware of the different facets of the pageant. The time I spent at the pageant will definitely aid me in my pursuit of winning the title of Mr Supranational 2016.

What do you think helped you win the title of Mr Supranational India 2016 ?

It was my genuineness that worked in my favour I would say. I tried to be my own self and did not try to be different. However, the competition was tough as I competed with some of the best men in India. Also, I am an actor and I love facing the camera which always brings the best in me. Likewise, my personality is also one of the factors which helped me win the title of Mr Supranational India 2016. Moreover, I always give my 100 percent in whatever I do, that’s it.

Is it fair to say now that it is all preparation and no play for you right now with tight schedules to follow as a part of your journey to the Mr Supranational pageant ?

Definitely, as a lot of work needs to be done and it is all about putting your best foot forward within the limited time I have in hand. I am well aware of the preparation and hard work that needs to be done. This means putting in that extra yard every day. I am all geared for the same and when you have a little time in hand, I feel it is more of a blessing as there is that extra motivation to do well.

It is for the first time that Mr Supranational pageant is happening, so one is not aware as to what the judges will be looking for in a finalist. In such a context do you feel it is an advantage or a disadvantage ?

It is an advantage, obviously for sure, as every delegate will be coming with an open mind and also I see it as an opportunity to discover a new side of my own self. I also strongly believe since it is happening for the first time one needs to adapt quickly to the pageant techniques. Similarly, the sooner you adapt the better are your chances at the pageant.

Rohit Khandelwal from India recently won the title of Mr World 2016. Do you feel there is additional pressure on you to perform well in a pageant like Mr Supranational ?

There is no additional pressure but there is that extra motivation to do well. Rohit is a very good friend of mine he has already shared some valuable tips which I will surely implement in my pageant journey. This is definitely an advantage and will inspire me to put in that extra effort in my journey ahead.

How did your friend and family react to your victory as Mr Supranational India 2016 ?

Their reaction was one of absolute joy and my mother was in tears when I broke the news of being the first Mr Supranational India 2016. I hope to make all my friends and family members proud. The kind of support they have given me is just incredible and I could not have asked for anything more.

The Mr India 2016 pageant is around the corner so what would be the one message you would like to give to all the Mr India aspirants ?

The one advice which I would like to give to all the Mr India aspirants is to just be yourself and be genuine at all times and work hard on your body and maintain good fitness levels.
Next Story