The countdown for the Mr India South Africa 2021 finals has officially begun and locals are rooting for Umkomaas finalist, Avikar Thilrama (24).

Thilrama was recently selected as a finalist for this annual event, and is eagerly awaiting his opportunity to win the title at The Warehouse in Durban on December 12.

“I can’t really say how I feel about being a finalist, because I still can’t wrap my head around me actually doing this,” explained Thilrama.

“I’ve always been an introvert and this competition is helping me get out of my comfort zone, so winning Mr India South Africa would mean the world to me as well as make my family proud.”

The young finalist is currently pursuing a Bachelors degree in business administration through Mancosa and previously attended Esayidi TVET College for a National diploma in human resources management.

Prior to furthering his education, he attended Naidoo Memorial Primary and Umkomaas Secondary.

In school, Thilrama was told that if the career path he has chosen doesn’t pan out, he should turn to modelling.

He never took it seriously, however in 2016 he wanted to enter the competition, but insecurities got the better of him.

“This year I decided to go all in because life is too short. Being hospitalised in the past year made me realise this and also with Covid-19 around I don’t want to live life with regret.”
For those unaware of what this competition is all about, Thilrama describes it as a platform to motivate excellence in young men.

“The event combines the arts, business, fashion, culture and some life skills. It is not a beauty pageant, but a platform that helps grow the beauty of the mind and spirit. The vision is to create global leaders.”

“Taking home the win on this platform would open so many doors for me and help me build my legacy. I’d use this platform to develop myself and in turn better the lives of those around me – basically a domino effect.”

The most challenging part of this competition for Thilrama has been overcoming his insecurities, but meeting the other finalists and forming a brotherhood with them has helped a lot.

“We always look out for each other and also the past years winners are humble and down to earth, so we are able to see ourselves in them.”

Regardless of what the outcome of the finals, Thilrama has already had an incredible journey meeting new people from all walks of life, interacting with them and learning new things each time.

“This competition has truly refined the gentleman in me and what keeps me motivated is having people see me as a role model especially my little cousin Akshay.”

“I am an only child, raised by my mother and grandparents due to my parents being separated, and I am grateful for all the support I’ve received from them, the rest of my family, friends and sponsors on my journey.”

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