Muslim Selected as Mr. India America

By Fakhr Ahmad

Los Angeles: 24-year-old Ali Haider has been selected as Mr India America in a tough April 19 contest held at Foster City, San Francisco.

“After winning this award I am very thankful to almighty Allah,” Haider told Pakistan Link over the phone.

He said the contest was very competitive as all participants were professional models and some were contestants to prestigious Grasim Mr. India.

“Out of almost 40 contestants I was the only Muslim and I am happy with their decision…I think it was fair”, Haider said.

The contest was divided in four different rounds: Introduction, traditional wear, talent, and tuxedo.

“For my talent I sang a ghazal without the help of any music”, he said.

Originally from Mumbai, Haider was brought up in Kuwait and came to the United States in January 2000 to do his major in advertising at Cal State Fullerton.

Awards and appreciation have never been a surprise for talented Haider, who has also modeled for Cerritos College catalog. “In school I was one of those very shy guys who never spoke to girls. But now I guess it’s different,” said Haider, who was honored with the position of being the President of International Student Association in the first semester at the college.

“This is where I learned the skill of communicating with all the students from different countries,” he said.

Leading International Student Association successfully, he later became the President of Muslim Student Association at Cerritos College where he polished his leadership qualities as well as spreading the word of Islam.

There is no prize money, Haider said, but the Mr. India America title would help in getting opportunities and contacts, such as an invitation to be part of the Bollywood Awards in New York on May 3.

Haider’s future plans are to continue to prove himself and make a mark in people’s heart. “My class mates were very shocked. It was a surprise for my parents also, as they did not know about me even entering the contest”.