From Struggles to Style: My Journey of Transformation

In the ever-evolving world of fashion and self-expression, my story stands as a testament to resilience, confidence, and the power of reinvention. As a student of NMIMS, my life took a transformative turn, one that reshaped not only my body but also my mindset and sense of style.

Born and raised in Coimbatore, I always had a deep-rooted passion for fashion. However, my journey was far from easy. During my schooling years, I weighed around 130 kg, a struggle that stemmed from genetics and unhealthy eating habits. My weight made me the target of scrutiny, and combined with my dark skin tone, I often found myself battling insecurities.

Despite my physical challenges, I excelled at basketball, using my height (a striking 6’2’’) to my advantage by playing in defense. But the inability to run continuously and endure long hours of play left me disheartened. I longed for change—not just in my appearance but in how I felt about myself.

Determined to transform my life, I embarked on a journey of self-improvement. The COVID-19 pandemic, though a global crisis, became an unexpected blessing for me. I utilized the time in my first year of college to dedicate myself to a strict diet and workout regimen, ultimately losing 60 kg. This transformation wasn’t just physical; it was deeply emotional and psychological.

As the weight melted away, my confidence soared. I no longer saw the person I used to be; instead, I felt like I had been reborn. The mental strength it took to push through the cravings and plateaus was tougher than the physical efforts, but my determination never wavered.

With my newfound confidence, I began embracing my passion for fashion wholeheartedly. Influenced by both European and American styles, I developed a keen interest in accessories, sneakers, and the nuances of personal styling. I found myself drawn to consulting in fashion partnerships, immersing myself in the industry I had always admired from afar.

However, I quickly realized a harsh reality—people treated me differently post-transformation. Those who once ignored or mocked me suddenly showed interest. Some expressed concern for my well-being, but I could sense the underlying mockery from my past. Relationships changed, and for the first time, I found myself in a romantic relationship—a stark contrast to my life before losing weight.

Through it all, I learned that losing weight was more about the mind than the body. The toughest battle wasn’t shedding kilos but staying consistent when results weren’t immediate. I experienced moments of self-doubt, but the fear of being mocked again pushed me forward. Today, I feel invincible, having overcome the mental barriers that once held me back.

From struggling with weight to finding my place in the fashion world, my journey is a powerful reminder that self-worth isn’t dictated by societal standards but by one’s ability to overcome, evolve, and exhale.