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Karanjee Singh Gaba United
Kingdom
Model Karanjee
Singh Gaba is making waves as the first-ever Sikh to be featured in a campaign showcasing the late great Virgil Abloah’s Spring/Summer 2022 men’s collection, highlighted in stores worldwide and online, including Louis Vuitton’s Instagram. Having grown up with a keen interest in the fashion industry, Gaba is motivated to educate others about Sikhi, drawing parallels with how Guru Nanak Dev Ji traveled far and wide to preach Sikhi during his traveling years.
Gaba elaborates, “I think fashion is one place where everyone has their eyes on regardless of religion, class, or gender. In many countries, people don’t even know there are Sikhs and those who do know about Sikhs, do not know that there are Sikhs from Afghanistan, too. Hence, fashion is one place which is close to me because it allows me to share Sikhi and my Afghan heritage and culture.”
Gaba’s experiences also include some setbacks. The resilient superstar has actually faced over a thousand rejections, has always chosen to keep moving forward, remembering that rejection is normal. Eventually, he landed in the right places. “I think a turban is a distinct identi- ty for myself in the fashion industry, but I also don’t cut my hair. This can be an obstacle in the industry as you do become restricted, but it allows me to stay true to my identity.”, says the proud Sikh.
For aspiring models, Gaba’s advice is to stay true to yourself and to learn to say no for uncomfortable asks. In addition, he reminds the fashion industry’s newcomers that despite the abundance of exposure, practicing humility is of utmost importance. Overall, one’s values should never be forgotten and carried on every path.
Given his success, Gaba is grateful to have become one of the firsts in the industry to make many marks, such as signing to be the one of the first turbaned Sikhs to shoot for major magazines and brands in Paris, Milan, and Germany. Ready to shine, Gaba is a testament to the fact that we are a step closer for the world now to showcase Sikhi and to open doors for future generations.