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Model Speak: 'I'm not a big believer in dieting'

Marianna Dias has quite a presence on the runway. The stunning 6'0 Brazilian model is a favorite with Indian designers thanks to her striking features and long-limbed frame.

Rediff.com caught up with Marianna, who's been modeling now in India for a year and a half, after she walked in the Shyamal & Bhumika show on Day One of Lakme Fashion Week.

You're from Brazil, tell us about Caminho das Indias (Way to India), the hit soap opera in your country that's about India!

In Brazil, serials are the biggest form of entertainment, like Bollywood in India. The show Caminho das Indias is about two lovers who come from different castes, and all the troubles they have. It's huge in Brazil! I've only seen episodes from the beginning of the series, but everyone in Brazil is telling me how popular it is. So now everyone in Brazil is interested in India!

Whom are you walking for this year?

(Laughs) Many, many designers!

How do you maintain your figure? What's your diet and exercise programme?

I'm not a big believer in dieting. I just think you should always eat right. I'm also not a big gym person, but I try to live a healthy lifestyle.

What's your personal fashion sense?

Nothing too fancy. My number one thing is that clothes should be comfortable. Here in India, for example, it's very hot. So I wear thin, light-weight clothing.

What are the trends at this year's fashion week?

I don't think we'll see anything too new or too adventurous. I've noticed a lot of Indian influences, like using the kurta and pajama silhouettes.

How long will you be modeling in India? Do you miss Brazil?

I will be in India until the end of this year. I really like India, but I'm starting to miss my friends and family. Also, I'm missing Brazilian food. When I first came here, I was very adventurous with the food, but now I'm missing my food from home. I really like Goan food though!

What about modeling in general? Do you want to keep this career?

I won't model forever. I'd like to go back to school to study, possibly psychology. Also, my sister is a fashion designer in Brazil, so maybe I'll go back home and help her run the store.