Amritsar, Dec. 31: It was a moment of great joy and pride for the 29 finalists of the third Mr. Singh International competition, when they walked on the ramp amidst a cheering crowd during the annual contest held here recently.

Short-listed out of 2,000 participants from 45 cities from India and abroad, these finalists had undergone a three-month personality grooming course.
 
They were taught skills related to Gatka (the traditional Sikh martial art), theatre performance, Gurmat (the Guru’s teachings and Sikh code of conduct) and basic mannerisms before the grand finale.

Promoted by Akal Purakh Ki Fauj, Mr. Singh International evoked a new wave of joy among the Sikh youth who consider themselves as upholders of modern Sikhism.

Daman Deep Singh, a participant in the Mr. Singh International, said: “Disproving the popular perception that modelling is not their turf, Sikh youngsters have walked the ramp with élan. We want to prove to the world that Sikhs can take to modelling with equal verve, as they can also look stylish and handsome on stage.”

Gurjinder Singh, another participant in the Mr. Singh International, said: “Sikhs have done well in all spheres of life.”

“Such modelling competitions lend fine exposure to the Sikh youth. Through modelling, the Sikh youth would also get a chance to try their hand at acting in films and become icons like Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan. It's an attempt to provide exposure to Sikh youth so that they can take pride in their distinct identity,” Singh added.

Despite chilling weather, the stands in the Khalsa College ground were packed to capacity. The overwhelming response saw organizers and the security personnel having a tough time controlling the huge crowd that had gathered at the venue.
 
A majority of the audience comprised youngsters, but the elderly were equally keen to identify themselves with the spirit of Mr. Singh International.

“I have observed that the youngsters are deeply attached to their culture. It is a great feeling. Undoubtedly, the youngsters, who have come to watch the show, will also develop a deep attachment for their basic traditions,” said an elderly man in the audience.

Among the popular Bollywood personalities, Rishi Kapoor and actor-turned-politician Raj Babbar graced the occasion with their presence.

The competition comprised various rounds that included to formal dress, question-answer session, physique round and the traditional wear round.

But it was Parneet Singh of Dehradun who finally lifted the trophy winning the title of Mr. Singh International.
 
After winning the competition, Parmeet Singh said, “My sincere thanks to Wahe Guru (Gurunanak), as He lent me this impressive personality. I wish to be born as a Sikh in my next birth too. I am proud to be a Sikh.”

Parmeet Singh is a role model for Sikh youth who dream of making it big in the world of glamour and entertainment.

Damandeep Singh from Pathankot and Tejinder Singh from Baroda emerged first and second runners-up in the contest.

Mr. Singh International competition has actually provided the Sikh youth to display their Sikh culture besides their personality at a distinguish platform. (ANI)