Athiya Shetty

There's more to this budding actor than her background in films and athletic physique. From how she's evolved over the years to achieving a Zen-like state of mind, from owning her mistakes to staying true to her path, Athiya Shetty bares it all in an intimate chat with HELLO!

- NAYARE ALI

As you enter the narrow bylanes of Kala Ghoda, South Mumbai a neighbourhood replete with high-end designer stores, the minimalist signboard with 'Anamika Khanna' across it is hard to miss. Inside, quietly seated amid the customary chaos of a photo shoot, is the stately figure of Athiya Shetty, her poise evident. A popular muse among designers, she breezes through multiple costume changes for HELLO!, dressed in the vibrant creations of AK-OK, a new line helmed by Anamika and her twins, Viraj and Vishesh.

Athiya is completely at ease as she puts on a show for the lensman. So much so that one wonders why she isn't in international campaigns or on the runway more often.

"I got asked about it while pursuing my film course at New York Film Academy," she shares. "I was a 17-year-old from Mumbai and received multiple offers, but I knew even back then that it wouldn't have brought me complete joy. Although, I must confess: I love working in front of the camera, be it to act or for fashion shoots."

Athiya nails playing muse like a pro: her eyes courting the camera, her lips flashing a hint of a smile, her body in sync with her countenance. As she completely owns her looks, one can sense her appreciation for the outfits she sports.

"I've always loved Anamika Khanna as a designer. She's an amazing person, and that translates into her creations. I love her latest collection not just in terms of design but even for its silhouettes. She makes every Indian woman look so good. Her outfits fit me like a glove, and I look so powerful in them."

And it's not just the muse; the designer, too, is just as besotted by her. Says Anamika: "I love Athiya's energy. She exudes a relaxed vibe, which is in sync with AK-OK's latest collection. She's beautiful and confident and has the ability to own a look, which is what AK-OK stands for."