Become a hunky voice for the voiceless

A young man who wants to be the voice of causes he cares about while enjoying the perks of being a celebrity may be able to make both wishes come true as Mr India South Africa 2013.

This is according to titleholder Tevin Naidu, 20, who is studying medicine at the University of Stellenbosch.

In December Naidu will be handing over his sash to the 2013 Mr India South Africa - a contest held every year or two and open to young men who want to get involved in youth development.

Naidu, who won the competition in 2011, said the titleholder had to be "someone who can highlight traditional Indian heritage and show South Africa that we, as Indians, are much more than just sugar-cane cutters or bunny-chow makers and have a lot to offer South Africa and the world".

Thanks to his win in 2011, "I'm now a celebrity partner with a charity group. I'm a presenter/ actor. I have actual 'fans' which is pretty cool. It's all very surreal; I wouldn't trade it for anything!

"In fact, I'm pretty sad that my run is soon coming to an end. I just hope the next Mr India South Africa carries this title with pride and respect and uses it wisely."

Organiser Danny Moodliyar said the contest was not limited to South Africans of Indian descent. "Any South African male that has a love for Indian art and Indian culture" could enter.

"We must celebrate our South Africanness and being Indian is just a cultural and visual difference."

Moodliyar said that in addition to free grooming and deportment classes, this year's contestants would also get tabla lessons.

Prizes worth more than R120000 can be won, including a part-time graphic and art course worth R30000.

Contestants will be required to engage in discussions about social issues including teenage pregnancies, Aids awareness, drugs, education, water and Africanism.

To enter, e-mail your photos and contact details to info@mrindiasouthafrica.co.za; visit the Mr India South Africa Facebook page or contact 0837776060.