A Winning Spirit: Lisa Ray

Translating as a metaphor for unshaken spirit and beaming with life, supermodel, actor, social activist and philanthropist Lisa Ray is a true epitome of beauty, inner as well as outer. As she dons several roles at once, we speak to her to find out more about her luxe life.

Photo courtesy: Rado

 What does being 'Lisa Ray' mean?

Being ‘Lisa Ray’ today means being comfortable in my own skin and embracing life. I have always tried to make professional choices that are aligned with my core values. I have proved I have 'unlimited spirit'.

 As an actor, social activist and a philanthropist, which role is the closest to you and why?

All of these roles work together. They are my 'holy trinity' and they nurture me in different ways.

 How did winning a tough battle against cancer change your life?

I call myself Lisa 2.0, new and improved. What I have learned is to drop what is unnecessary in life: doubt, fear, insecurities and pretensions. Battling with cancer has brought out what is really important in life into a sharp focus.

 Where do you draw inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from art, nature, spirituality and other heroes I have come across.

 Named one of the 'Most Beautiful women', how do you perceive beauty?

Let's face it, it's very subjective! For me now, beauty is defined by the passage of time you see in a person's eyes or face.

 What does the concept of time mean to you?

Time is a precious commodity now in our world. We all want more of it.

 As a brand ambassador of Rado, what do watches mean to you and which is your favourite timepiece?

My Rado watches have been my truly consistent accessories and I think of them as my style statement. I let my wrist do the talking. I can't choose a favourite from so many gorgeous, stylish, fabulous, hightech models. You’re asking me to choose my favourite child!

 How was your journey with TLC's Oh My Gold and as host of Top Chef Canada, how do you juggle with such diverse professwions and interests?

I absolutely love all the different roles I can play these days. I absolutely loved hosting OMG and Top Chef and I look forward to connecting with the audience in different ways. It's a celebration now for Lisa 2.0.

 With Indian roots, which country is the closest to you, India or Canada? Can you tell us some of your fondest memories of India?

India is closest to my heart. I lived in Mumbai for 12 years of my life and I will always consider it home. However, Canada is a wonderful country to call home as well. My fondest memories revolve around the holidays in Goa and Dharamshala and spending time with my family in Calcutta.

 What does luxury mean to you?

Luxury is attention to detail, boldness, and a thirst for beauty and perfection, which expresses itself through the product.

 Known for taking up unusual and challenging roles in movies like Water, unlike typical Bollywood movies, what does acting mean to you?

Acting is something that comes from the heart. I prefer to think of it as a platform to showcase a message embedded in entertainment. It's about finding the truth.

 What does the enar future hold for Lisa Ray?

So much joy! Top Chef Canada has just released and I feel proud to represent my Indian heritage to a wide audience in Canada. I am just newly engaged, writing a book, working on a beauty line, and looking on new projects and scripts. It's a time of 'unlimited spirit'.