ZAlebs reporter, Waheeda Peters, caught up with the gorgeous Pubern Padayachee (a former Mr India South Africa, and Mr India Worldwide) this week to chat about his time in front of the camera as the SABC Expresso presenter. Pubern is also the owner of the Mrs India International pageant. 

 

Just when you think his career is just being a gorgeous hunk, you are wrong, Pubern is also a medical doctor; given the profession and gift of a healer and nurturer, and blessed with the compassion and patience to look after those who are not his own, and yes, he is single, ladies! 

 

Who has influenced you to embark in a career such as in the acting/modelling/media industry?

 

I have always had a balance between academics and entertainment and can remember as far as primary school being on stage singing and acting.

 

What is your favourite childhood memory?

 

My mom would tickle my feet to wake me up early for school.

 

Favourite hobbies you enjoy outside of acting and singing?

 

I love dancing. I have an Indian, classical background in Bharatnathyam, and enjoy all forms of dance such as hip hop, Bollywood, contemporary and ballroom. When my feet come to rhythm with the music, my soul comes to life.

 

Your favourite top three movies?

 

Kutch Kutch Hotha Hai, My Best Friend’s Wedding and Fight Club.

 

Favourite actor?

 

Tom Cruise

 

Favourite singer?

 

Bryan Adams

 

Song you never get tired of hearing?

 

Cher: I Believe

 

How do you define happiness?

 

Gratification of all senses, shared with the ones you love.

 

If I gave you an elephant where would you hide it?

 

In my car boot. It says it’s big enough in my manual!

 

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you take with you?

 

My multivitamins...A-Zinc for survival. My sunblock and a copy of The Alchemist that I have been too busy to complete reading.

 

If you could meet anyone 'dead' or 'alive' who would it be and what would you say to them?

 

I would meet Hitler and without judgement or prejudice, casually slip into conversation questions on how to take over the world. Twisted, sick little man, but brilliant!

 

If you were a biscuit what would you be?

 

I'd be a fat-free, lose weight, and taste delicious biscuit. I would be in everyone’s cupboards and make a fortune selling myself!

 

I'm proudly South African and love it because...

 

We are the only nation in the world that can have a Bhangra and a braai on the same night. It's our diversity and tolerance of different cultures and heritages that gives our unique fingerprint. It may not have started off as such, but Sout Africa is moving towards a direction that displays acceptance and tolerance that is essential for world peace.

 

Pubern, has been called one of the most beautiful men in the world, but contributes his success to a healthy diet, exercise and hard work. ZAlebs would like to wish Dr Pubern all the best as he will be competing in the Mr SA International in Indonesia in November. Good luck doc!