We need to bring back concept of supermodels: Anusha Dandekar

Mumbai: VJ-actress Anusha Dandekar feels today Bollywood celebrities have taken over the space of magazine covers and show-stoppers from supermodels, which must change.

The actress says, while it is unfair to use the word "decline" as far the concept of supermodel goes, the generation of supermodels have changed.

"Bollywood definitely has taken over the reigns of magazine covers, show stoppers...The supermodel generation has changed and we are not going to lie about it. But why not try and bring it back," Anusha told PTI.

The VJ will be seen as a mentor on the upcoming season two of MTV's "India's Next Top Model".

She said they are trying to groom the best of the models on the show without body-shamming anyone.

"We want to bring back the cream of the crop. Supermodels have to have height, a certain look. We got a lot of people saying that we shouldn't be body shaming," she said.

"Everyone has to understand that there is a prerequisite for every career in your life. You want to be a doctor, you can't be one without a degree. As a model, it's the sane thing," she added.

Apart from Anusha, the show features actress Lisa Haydon and ace photographer Daboo Ratnani as judges, while Neeraj Gaba will be seen as a mentor.

The 34-year-old "Viruddh" actress says a show like this will give a huge platform to several modelling aspirants who come to Mumbai hoping to make it big.

"We have so many beautiful women in this country who are still undiscovered. It's not easy to walk in to Mumbai and say 'I want to be a model'," she said.

"Earlier people didn't have an opportunity like this. So, it is nice for the youngsters to be groomed by the best in the industry. It's a great platform," Anusha added.

"India's Next Top Model" will premiere on July 10.