The first Indian to win the Mr World title, Rohit Khandelwal is ready for a Bollywood career
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 21, 2016)

When Rohit Khandelwal moved from Hyderabad to Mumbai to pursue a full-time career as an actor-model, he would've laughed off the thought of being crowned Mr World, one day. But Rohit's done it!

Looking suave in a Nivedita Saboo designed tuxedo for his final appearance in the contest, Rohit became the first Indian to win the coveted title at the Southport Theatre on July 19, taking home $50,000 which he plans to invest in himself, after donating a portion to a cause he believes in. "I'd been prepping up for the contest since the last three months. My parents (Rajkumar and Sumanlata Khandelwal) were initially hesitant about what I was getting into and when I won, the first call I made was to them. They were ecstatic! My mom began to cry. I am thankful to Mr Vineet Jain (Managing Director, The Times Group) and the Miss India organization for giving me this opportunity and guiding me throughout this exciting journey," Rohit informed Mirror over a telephonic conversation from the UK.

He admits his 'victory' is a milestone in the modelling world. India has had Miss Universes like Sushmita Sen and Lara Dutta and Miss Worlds like Aishwarya Rai and Priyanka Chopra, but male models haven't got the same kind of international recognition. "I'm immensely proud and hope that I can be an inspiration to many other male models in India," he exults.

Set to return to the Bay on Friday, a grand airport welcome is being planned for Rohit, with his fans, band and baaja. Even though he is contractually bound and will travel across the globe for several humanitarian causes, he is ready for a Bollywood career. "Shah Rukh Khan has been my inspiration. His work, charisma and the manner in which he conducts himself and stays dedicated has always motivated me," he asserts, "I'd love to sign a film with the right production house soon."
---------------
Lakshmi V (BOMBAY TIMES; July 21, 2016)

Rohit Khandelwal, winner of Provogue Personal Care Mr India 2015, has created history. Yes, the young man from Hyderabad is the first Indian, in fact, the first Asian to win the coveted title of Mr World 2016. He competed with 46 participants from across the world to bring home the honour. The event was judged by a reputed panel of jury comprising experts from various countries.After several rounds of subcontests, including Mr World Talent, Mr World Sports Event and Mobstar People's Choice Awards, he was adjudged Mr World 2016 at a grand ceremony held on July 19 at Southport Theatre, Floral Hall, The Promenade, Southport (UK). He also won the Mr World Multimedia Award at the event and a cash prize of of $50,000.

Before embarking on his journey, Rohit had said that winning the pageant was important to him because no one else from the country has brought the title home before. And now ecstatic about his dream turning into reality , Rohit, who looked dapper in a tuxedo designed by couture designer Nivedita Saboo for the finale, says, “It was an unbelievable moment; it's yet to sink in that I've won Mr World 2016. And the fact that I'm the first Indian ever to win this title internationally makes me proud. It has been my dream to win the title and I'm very thankful to Mr Vineet Jain (MD, Times Group) and the Miss India Organization for giving me this opportunity and guiding me throughout this journey.“ Rohit adds, “My parents had tears in their eyes when they said I've made them proud.“

So, what helped him clinch the title? “I gave my best in every round. For instance, I performed to Malhari (from Bajirao Mastani) in the talent round. Though it was a short act, I actually learnt sword fighting for it.In those 10 days that I spent with my co-contestants, I made a lot of friends. They liked my attitude and voted for me. The fact that I've been actively involved in causes and have conducted workshops gave me an edge over the others,“ he replies.

Recalling how he impressed Megan Young (Miss World 2013), who was hosting the show, in the finale round, he says, “I just had one minute. So, I got down on my knees and proposed to her with Shah Rukh Khan's famous Om Shanti Om dialogue. She loved it when I explained the meaning in English.“

Rohit's fitness level, art of communication and style quotient was much appreciated and he gives credit for all this to the experts who trained him.A firm believer that `more than talent, success depends on honing your skills', Rohit says he can't wait to come back home and share his victory with his loved ones. Celebrations and a grand welcome await him in India today! For more information, log on to http:www.misterindia.net