1. Ujjwala Raut
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Why she matters: Ujjwala Raut is widely regarded as one of India’s first true “supermodels”. Born in 1978, she started modelling early and has walked for international houses including Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Gucci. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
Impact: She broke many barriers for Indian models on global runways and raised the aspirational bar in India’s modelling industry.
Key takeaway: A pioneer who helped Indian modelling gain global respect — ideal reference for anyone looking at modelling as a serious, international career.
2. Bhumika Arora
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Why she matters: Bhumika Arora, from New Delhi, was named by Vogue India as “the next Indian supermodel”. Wikipedia+1 She’s walked in New York and Paris, for designers like Alexander Wang, Chanel etc. Wikipedia+1
Impact: She represents the new generation of Indian models who are making mark globally — not just domestically.
Key takeaway: If you’re exploring how Indian models are gaining an international footprint, her journey is a great example.
3. Radhika Nair
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Why she matters: Radhika Nair made history by becoming the first Indian model to walk for Balenciaga’s SS17 show. Wikipedia She also has a background in commerce and photography, which adds depth to her modelling story.
Impact: Her breakthrough shows how Indian models are not just participating but excelling on global high-fashion runways.
Key takeaway: A model with a strong global credentials and an inspiring background — great to highlight diversity and ambition.
4. Pooja Mor
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Why she matters: A model from Uttar Pradesh who gave up an engineering path to pursue modelling — and debuted internationally for Louis Vuitton. India Today+1
Impact: Her story resonates as one of risk, self-belief and breaking norms (academic → fashion), which is powerful in the Indian context.
Key takeaway: A role-model for those coming from non-fashion backgrounds who want to make it in modelling.
5. Sheetal Mallar
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Why she matters: Sheetal Mallar, born 1974 in Mumbai, is a veteran of India’s modelling scene and one of the early winners of modelling-competitions who worked internationally. Wikipedia
Impact: Her longevity and transition into photography emphasises that modelling isn’t just a short career but can evolve into different creative avenues.
Key takeaway: Great example of how models can reinvent themselves and sustain a career beyond the ramp.
6. Monikangana Dutta
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Why she matters: Hailing from Assam, she moved to the international stage and walked for Vivienne Westwood, Dior, Christian Dior. Wikipedia
Impact: Her origin story (from Guwahati to Paris/Milan) shows modelling opportunities are accessible beyond metro centres, inspiring for regional talent.
Key takeaway: Important model to note when discussing regional diversity in India’s fashion modelling landscape.
7. Urvashi Rautela
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Why she matters: While more pageant-/celebrity-leaning than pure runway, Urvashi has become one of India’s most high-profile model-personalities, often featuring in lists of top Indian models. StarBiz.com
Impact: She represents the crossover between modelling, social media, celebrity branding — valuable in today’s influencer-driven fashion world.
Key takeaway: Use her story to illustrate how modelling in India today blends with social media, branding and entertainment.
8. Lakshmi Menon
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Why she matters: Lakshmi Menon has been noted as India’s “supermodel” from the mid-2000s onward, and known for her international runway credentials (Hermès, Givenchy etc). reddit.com
Impact: She helps illustrate the bridge era — from earlier Indian models to newer international-industry Indian faces.
Key takeaway: A strong legacy model whose career can help readers understand the evolution of the Indian modelling scene.
9. Namrata Shirodkar
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Why she matters: Though now more known for her acting, Namrata Shirodkar started as a model (Femina Miss India winner) and is listed among India’s most famous models. Pantheon+1
Impact: Her inclusion shows the crossover path from modelling to entertainment — a route many Indian models take.
Key takeaway: Good for acknowledging that modelling in India often isn’t isolated — many move into film, TV, business.
