Maumita poses against the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. Vogue Arabia, July/August 2022. Photo: Nishanth Radhakrishnan
Besides being dedicated to the color pink, the Vogue Arabia July/August 2022 issue also celebrates the strong ties between the Gulf and India that have influenced each others’ food, art, fashion, and much more. And so, featuring on our cover for the first time is an up-and-coming model hailing from the country. Originally from Guwahati in Assam, Maumita is a 21-year-old who is currently pursuing a BA majoring in psychology. Her repertoire so far includes working for some of the much-loved Indian brands, such as Label Ritu Kumar, Fab India, Myntra, and Pink City Prints.
Below, get to know all about Maumita in 17 questions.
How would you describe yourself to someone you just met?
Introvert, great listener, and adventurous.
How and when did you get into modeling?
I have always enjoyed being in front of the camera—whether it’s acting or modeling. When I was a kid, my dad used to take pictures of me and my sister with his film camera. That’s how it started. I am extremely grateful to have been scouted right in my hometown, and then I was guided to get placed with agencies.
What three words best describe your personal style?
Comfortable, timeless, and expressive.
What is the oldest and most cherished item in your closet?
It’s definitely my mom’s mekhela sador from her wedding, which is a traditional Assamese attire. It’s priceless!
Can you share a few highlights of your career with us?
It has to be shooting for Fab India which was one of my biggest campaigns and of course, Vogue Arabia!
Who is your dream designer to work with?
It’s hard to name one but nationally, Sabyasachi Mukherjee and internationally, Casey Cadwallader, Yohji Yamamoto, and Supriya Lele.
What were the best moments of shooting the Vogue Arabia cover?
It was an absolute honor to shoot with the Maharaja of Jaipur. Besides that, getting to wear the most stylish outfits and working with an amazingly talented crew in my beautiful country were a few of the best moments of shooting for Vogue Arabia.
Since our issue is dedicated to pink, how does the color make you feel?
It makes me feel warm because it reminds me of love, bonding, happiness—and Jaipur!
What’s the best thing about being a model?
The best thing about being a model is getting to wear literal pieces of art that take a lot of time and effort to create, meeting super creative people from different cultural backgrounds, and traveling to beautiful places with a beautiful history.
What’s the worst thing about being a model?
The worst thing about being a model is having to stay away from my loved ones and being anxious about missing my flights!
If you could make Jaipur your home, where would you live?
Probably in Hawa Mahal (I wish it was possible). I bet it has a spectacular view!
What makes Vogue Arabia special to you?
Vogue Arabia is empowering and that’s what makes it special to me. Being one of the top Vogue magazines, it lends a voice to Middle Eastern women and also brings cultures together, and creates a platform to showcase the best in fashion.
Tell us one secret from the day you spent shooting with Vogue Arabia in Jaipur.
If I do tell, it won’t remain a secret anymore!
If you could steal one outfit/jewelry piece from the cover shoot, which one would it be?
The purple Elie Saab outfit that was shot in the middle of a huge crowd in a flower market. It was so dramatic, I loved it. Also, I could walk around in those Versace platform pumps forever.
Name one song that reminds you of India.
‘Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera’ by A.R. Rahman. It has a beautiful meaning behind it.
What’s one song that always reminds you of the Middle East?
‘Noor’ by Gobi Desert Collective. I discovered this song a few months ago and it reminds me of the Middle East whenever I listen to it.
What’s one thing you think India and the Middle East have in common?
The warmth of the people and the colors of their cultures!
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