Shabiha Nur Khatoon
Ajay Kumar Behera is an ace fashion choreographer who trains budding models and conducts fashion shows with the aim of bridging the gap between commerce and creativity
Bhubaneswar is already on top of the smart city list. Meet Ajay Kumar Behera who dreams of making the city a glittering fashion and style hub in the country. Ajay was never much interested in studies, but always sought to make it big on the big screen. After completing his graduation from JKBK College, he moved to Delhi to pursue his modelling dreams. When nothing clicked, he decided to shift to the ‘City of Dreams’— Mumbai. However, even after a lot struggle there things didn’t fall into place for Ajay.
This time he didn’t move to another city, rather decided to effect a change in career plans. From modelling he switched to fashion choreography. Ajay hit upon the idea of grooming young talents to help them achieve their dreams in the glamour world and become successful models.
“When I first went to Delhi and then to Mumbai, I had to struggle a lot as there was nobody to help me. People consoled and advised me, but nobody offered work. It was then I decided to take up grooming modelling aspirants to hone their potential. After spending a couple of years in Mumbai I returned to Orissa with the aim of making it big here,” he says.
Dwelling on the different aspects of the profession, the fashion choreographer says directing fashion shows requires immense experience and interest in the fashion industry. At the initial stages, one can learn by assisting a choreographer.
The fashion choreographer opines that during his initial days of struggle scope was essentially limited and resources too were scarce. He adds his decision to make a career switch was, in retrospect, absolutely essential.
“When I started modelling there was little scope but today things are changing. From 2007, I started my own agency where I groom young boys and girls who are all set to make a mark in modelling. Currently, I am associated with some big names of the fashion world and have conducted many fashion shows. My objective behind organising the shows is to bridge the gap between commerce and creativity. Bhubaneswar is a smart city and there is no reason it should lag behind other cities when it comes to style and fashion,” says Ajay.
Ajay’s journey to prominence in his chosen vocation was never smooth. He had chosen a path less travelled as well as highly competitive. Sharing his experiences, Ajay recounts: “I can’t forget anything easily because rejection has taught me a lot of things. During my early days in Delhi, I used to skip a meal as I was short of money. However, I am greatly thankful to my family members who always stood by me.”
Pointing out the different qualities a choreographer must have Ajay, who has spent several years in the profession, says: “The most important talent you need to have is an ear for music and the ability to comprehend the way a designer visualises the show. For me, a choreographer simply brings to life the vision of the designer or a brand.”
“My parents are supportive and they always gave me the freedom to chase my dreams. They have taught me to be confident and determined in whatever I do,” quips the fashion choreographer.
Narrating a memorable moment Ajay says: “There are moments I simply can’t forget like when the models I have groomed achieve a commendable feat. I trained the participants of Miss Odisha India, both last year and this year, and some of them have qualified for the next level. It feels nice when my students make it big. The most important among my forthcoming projects is the Bhubaneswar style week which I am directing. I am choreographing the event too.”
Ajay, who claims he is the biggest fan of ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ star Salman Khan, admires the superstar’s “genuine personality, physique and helpful nature”. He finds inspiration in Sallu bhai. He hasn’t missed a single Salman Khan movie thus far.
