Walking in style at 58: A story of rediscovery and resilience

An inspiring story of Raj Srinivasan (Khyaal Club Member)

“My name is Raj Srinivasan and everyone calls me Raj. I am 58 years young, born in Chennai and brought up in Jamshedpur. I pursued a degree in commerce and also trained in Stenography. Since my college was an evening one, I worked during the day and studied at night. At 20, I began working in Jamshedpur and then moved to Delhi to join ACMA, which had moved its headquarters to Delhi from Mumbai. Life took another turn when, in 1992, I was given the opportunity to move to Chennai to establish the Southern Region office of the same organization at a very young age. I established, nurtured, and led the office for over 15 years. My journey in the corporate world lasted around 35 years, during which I travelled the world on business and sometimes on pleasure. This helped me widen my horizon and explore and understand different cultures and people, which I love. I am grateful for the experiences and impressions I gained, and happily carried out my responsibilities.

Ever since childhood, I was fascinated by the world of movies, fashion, and glamour. I loved watching movies, serials, and advertisements! One ad in particular that caught my attention and inspired me was of ‘Graviera’ way back in the 80s. A model would walk across the screen in a sharp suit, the brand logo appearing in style. This model later on, became the Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. That is when I thought I should become a Model so that I get to wear all the wonderful clothes and become a celebrity. When I shifted to Delhi in 1990 as a career move and to join ACMA, in my free time on weekends, I approached several modeling agencies. Nothing worked out, and with a secure job in hand, I continued working. But the desire stayed with me. Even after marriage and having a son, the dream lingered quietly.

It was only around the year 2000 that I finally got my first opportunity. One of my father’s neighbours was a cinematographer and photographer, from whom I got my portfolio done. My first ad was for Rasna in 2000. Around the same time, I also did a tiny part as a doctor in the Tamil film Alai Payudhe (R.Madhavan’s debut with Mani Ratnam). Shooting at night and attending my office during the day was exhausting. So, I stepped back from acting and focused fully on my career.

Life took a poignant turn in 2020 when, on our 25th wedding anniversary, my wife, Dimple, was diagnosed with cancer. While the world battled COVID, we fought a twin battle with the lockdown and the treatment. While it was detected in the first stage itself, and Dimple took on the battle like a champion and responded to the treatment, Cancer came back with vengeance within 18 months. We explored all kinds of medicine, including Ayurveda, homeopathy, etc. I also took her to the USA in December 2022 to explore a clinical trial. One of my cherished moments was seeing her smile and be happy despite all that she had to endure. In March 2023, the disease spread. That’s when I quit my job as CEO of NIQR to care for her. It was the most difficult time of our lives. She remained hopeful and courageous, but in October 2023, I lost her. Within a few months, I also lost my mother. My son was also away in Canada for his Masters studies. My home, which was once full of warmth and laughter, suddenly became quiet and empty. There were days when I wondered how I would find the strength to move forward. But deep down, I knew I had to hold myself together. The grief was overwhelming, but I held on. Having turned to spirituality over a decade ago and doing my daily meditation gave me the strength, courage, and purpose. During her last stages, my wife said that after her, I should follow my dreams instead of a corporate job. After my mother passed away, I took a trip away from home to be with my family in the US and Canada. This helped me reconnect with myself and pursue the passions that I had set aside for so long.

With renewed interest, I found the courage to restart. I returned to acting with the Tamil movie ‘Scene Number 62’, which I shot while she was still alive, and it got released in theatres in October 2024. Walking into a cinema hall and watching myself on the big screen was a surreal moment. It reminded me that it is never too late to start over. I also acted in a web series, ‘Forever Buddies’, available on MX Player.

Then came another turn in my life. While browsing social media, I came across an ad for a Senior Pageant organised by Peach Events for men and women above 55. I participated in the Pageant in May 2025. The auditions were held online with participants across the country. There were over 200 entries, and 20 women and 16 men were selected as finalists. We had to go through 4 days of grooming and training. One thing I realised is that, like any other business, the business of walking the ramp was not as easy as it seems. It involves a lot of systematic choreography and formation. Participating in the Pageant brought me close to 35 other contestants who are all at a similar stage in their lives. Each one is unique and amazing. We were all like-minded and connected instantly. I am happy to say that I have made 35 new friends at this stage in my life. Some of us have become very close as if we have known each other forever. We are in a WhatsApp group appropriately called ‘Jazzba@55+’ because all of us are super enthusiastic and want to do something, more importantly, for ourselves. I am happy that I won ‘Mr Senior India’, third runner-up! Walking the ramp gave me a new thrill - a sense of confidence and celebration. The participation opened new doors for me. It got me press coverage, recognition, and most importantly, a renewed sense of purpose. Soon after, I was invited to walk in shows in Dubai and Goa for top designers. Each time, the applause, the admiration, and the sheer joy of being on stage gave me a high that words can barely describe. I got to meet designers, show directors, and choreographers, and discovered the joy of carrying myself with confidence and style. Clothes have always been more than fabric to me-they are a way to express personality and show the world who you are. I love being a fashion icon, something my family often appreciates. In fact, my wife used to call me her personal designer. I have received appreciation from models, co-actors, designers, and friends for my style. On the ramp or in front of the camera, I am very happy and energetic as I am finally doing what I have always wanted. It gives me purpose, and I am not just a model or actor, but someone who has embraced life fully.

Music has been a great healing force. During the darkest days, I began recording songs on Smule, and today I have sung over 900 songs. Music has been like therapy, helping me heal and find joy again. Looking ahead, I am excited to participate in more modelling events. I also look forward to working with top designers in the industry, such as Vivek Karunakaran, Sabyasachi, Tarun Tahiliani, Karun Raman & Shunyaa, and also walking the runway in New York, London, and Paris. I am eager to continue acting in new projects and wish to be in the same frame with Kamal Hassan, Rajnikant, Amitabh Bachchan, and all the big stars. I wish to explore life in ways I never imagined before. In fact, I have recently shot for a new web series, and I am a finalist at the Mr. Asian Supermodel contest to be held on 14th September 2025 in Dehradun.

Life has given me an opportunity to pursue what I love. In pursuit of happiness, I fully embrace this chapter of my life, celebrating every opportunity with gratitude, joy, and excitement! Having completed his Masters, my son Rahul is also back with me in Chennai and looking at pursuing his career here!

Khyaal has added a very refreshing dimension to my life. I discovered Khyaal through the 50 Above 50 Contest. The moment I saw it on social media, I nominated myself in the Singing Superstar, Style Icon, and Quiz categories. It is my deep desire and manifestation that I win all the categories that I have entered. The Khyaal community keeps me connected, inspired, and full of positive energy. Through sessions and shared experiences, I feel a sense of belonging that motivates me to live fully and look forward to the next chapter.

To my fellow seniors, I would like to say this: Never stop dreaming. Life may test you in painful ways, but it also gives us chances to restart. As they say, “Jab jaago tab savera” (literally means it is morning when you wake). So wake up, embrace this beautiful life as a human being. Learn to love yourself, and follow your heart. Unless you love yourself and take care, nobody else is going to. It all begins with Self-Love and it is not selfish.” - Raj Srinivasan (Khyaal Club Member)