A BizAndhra Special
New Delhi/New York: Bhavitha Mandava, a 25-year-old model from Hyderabad, has made a striking global debut after opening Chanel’s Métiers d’Art 2026 show by Matthieu Blazy in New York City. For a model who began her career barely a year ago, the honour of opening a Chanel show marks an extraordinary leap in the international fashion world.
Held at the historic Bowery Station, the show began with Bhavitha descending the station staircase before leading the runway sequence—an image that instantly became one of the most circulated visuals from the event. Adding emotional weight to the moment, her parents were watching her from home, cheering as their daughter took centre stage for one of luxury fashion’s most influential maisons.
A Remarkable Rise from Hyderabad to Chanel
Bhavitha, born and raised in Hyderabad, moved abroad for studies and was discovered unexpectedly at a New York subway station—just two weeks before the Spring/Summer 2025 season, according to Models.com. From that point, her career ascended at extraordinary speed. Within a year, she walked for multiple international designers and earned a reputation for her sharp runway presence and distinctive features.
Fashion insiders say Chanel rarely entrusts newcomers with opening duties, making Bhavitha’s selection a major endorsement of her potential.
India Celebrates a New Global Face
Her debut has sparked pride across India, with many describing her meteoric rise as a breakthrough moment for Indian representation on luxury runways. Social media erupted with praise as clips of her opening walk went viral, highlighting her composure and commanding stage presence.
A Promising Future in Global Fashion
With a Chanel opener already on her CV within the first year of her modelling career, Bhavitha is expected to attract a wave of high-profile runway bookings, editorials, and campaigns. Agencies and luxury brands are reportedly eyeing her for upcoming seasons.
For someone scouted by chance and thrust into the spotlight within months, Bhavitha Mandava’s trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary—placing her firmly on the global fashion map and making Hyderabad proud.