The first thing I ever wanted to be as a child was an actress: Monisha Ram

It was a childhood dream turned into reality for model Monisha Ram. Born to an Indian father and Malaysian mother, she spent her childhood aspiring to be an actress.

After winning a beauty pageant back home, she began taking modelling seriously.

Upon moving to Chennai in March last year, directors began approaching her for films — she even got an opportunity to act with Kamal Haasan in an ad film.

She can’t help but get nostalgic, as she traces her journey in the fashion industry.

“The first thing I ever wanted to be as a child was an actress,” says the 22-year-old.

“I was modelling on a small scale until my cousins enrolled me in a competition for a popular Malaysian magazine — they were on the lookout for their next cover girl. To my surprise, or you can even say shock, I won it!” she exclaims.

From then on, modelling became an integral part of her life. When Monisha came to Chennai, she dove headfirst into the fashion scene here.

“When I came back, I immediately got into modelling. I love this city so much and the fashion industry here is much better than Malaysia. A lot more competition exists among the models as well, which motivates me to stay on the top of my game.”

This youngster got an opportunity with Kamal Haasan in an ad film.

“I got a call to be part of an ad with Kamal sir, I obviously couldn’t say no! Just watching him learn the dialogues and deliver it perfectly was a blessing. It still surprises me how such a big star can be that humble and courteous,” says Monisha.

About her acting in films she says, “I’m in talks with a couple of directors, hopefully something will work out soon!”