Nakul Bhardwaj, a 21-year-old model from Delhi, has made history by becoming the first Indian male model to walk the runway for Versace at Milan Fashion Week. The fashion world took notice as Bhardwaj strutted down the catwalk for Versace’s Spring-Summer 2025 show, marking a monumental moment in Indian fashion. Social media was abuzz with clips of his walk, and one user enthusiastically commented, “Damn, walking in the middle of Gigi and Vittoria.” The show featured Bhardwaj alongside top models like Gigi Hadid and Vittoria Ceretti, further highlighting the significance of his debut.
Bhardwaj’s rise to prominence has been swift, yet it’s a journey filled with hard work and perseverance. Standing at 6’3″, his imposing presence on the runway has made him a standout in the fashion world. What’s remarkable about his story is that just a few years ago, Bhardwaj was living in a small studio apartment in Delhi, trying to break into the modeling industry. Today, he’s walked for some of the biggest names in luxury fashion, including Ferragamo and Bottega Veneta, in addition to Versace. His success is being celebrated as a triumph not only for him personally but for Indian representation in the global fashion industry.
Growing up in Delhi, Bhardwaj’s dreams of becoming a model seemed distant. Fashion in India has often been associated with female models and Bollywood celebrities, but Bhardwaj was determined to challenge that narrative. He started by taking small gigs in local fashion shows and building his portfolio one photoshoot at a time. It wasn’t long before he caught the attention of international modeling scouts who recognized his potential to shine on a bigger stage.
Bhardwaj’s debut at Milan Fashion Week was not just a personal victory, but also a significant moment for the Indian fashion community. For years, Indian models have struggled to make a mark on international runways, especially male models. Bhardwaj’s appearance at Versace represents a shift in the global perception of beauty and talent, as the fashion industry becomes more inclusive and diverse.
His journey hasn’t been without its challenges. As an Indian male model, Bhardwaj had to work twice as hard to break into an industry that has traditionally been dominated by Western ideals of beauty. He faced rejections and roadblocks but remained focused on his goal. His resilience paid off when he was invited to walk for Ferragamo and Bottega Veneta earlier in the year, solidifying his status as one of the top rising stars in the modeling world.
The Milan Fashion Week appearance has opened new doors for Bhardwaj. He’s already being booked for more shows and campaigns with major fashion brands. What makes his story even more remarkable is how he’s inspiring a new generation of Indian models who now see that it’s possible to break into the international fashion scene. Bhardwaj himself has acknowledged that this is just the beginning, and he hopes to see more Indian faces on runways around the world.
As for the future, Bhardwaj is eager to continue his rise in the fashion industry. He’s already in talks with several top designers for upcoming fashion weeks and campaigns. But for now, he’s taking a moment to celebrate his accomplishments, reflecting on how far he’s come from his humble beginnings in Delhi.
His success on the runway is not just a win for him but a win for Indian representation in an industry that has historically overlooked diverse talent. As Bhardwaj continues to blaze a trail, it’s clear that his story will inspire many young Indian models and designers to pursue their dreams on the global stage. The future of fashion is looking more inclusive, and Nakul Bhardwaj is leading the charge.
Nakul Bhardwaj’s journey is not just a personal achievement but a powerful statement about the changing dynamics of the global fashion industry. Historically, the modeling world has often adhered to rigid standards, favoring a select few from specific regions. With Bhardwaj’s appearance on such a prestigious platform, it signals a broader movement towards embracing diversity. His success is a reflection of how fashion is evolving to include talents from different cultural backgrounds, and Bhardwaj’s story resonates with a wider audience, particularly in countries like India, where many aspiring models have felt underrepresented on the international stage.
Bhardwaj’s rise has also sparked conversations about the representation of Indian men in fashion. For too long, male models from India have been overshadowed by female counterparts, with international recognition remaining elusive. Bhardwaj’s breakthrough has not only shattered these limitations but has also inspired a wave of excitement among other male models back home, who now see him as a pioneer. Fashion critics and insiders have lauded his debut, calling it a refreshing change in the landscape of high fashion.
In addition to his modeling prowess, Bhardwaj has also garnered attention for his humility and grounded nature. Despite the glitz and glamour that come with his newfound fame, he remains connected to his roots. In interviews, he has often spoken about his early struggles, the support of his family, and how those experiences have shaped his outlook on life. He credits his upbringing in Delhi for keeping him focused, and he remains committed to using his platform to inspire and uplift others who come from similar backgrounds.
His success story has also sparked discussions on the importance of creating more opportunities for models from underrepresented regions. Industry experts believe that Bhardwaj’s entry into the elite circle of fashion shows in Milan will encourage more fashion houses to scout talent from countries like India. This could potentially lead to a more diverse pool of models walking the runways, which in turn could influence the types of campaigns and fashion narratives that emerge in the coming years.
Fashion enthusiasts and professionals alike are excited about what’s next for Bhardwaj. Beyond his runway appearances, he is likely to be tapped for high-profile editorial spreads and brand endorsements, which could further elevate his status in the global fashion scene. His ability to blend traditional Indian sensibilities with modern high fashion aesthetics makes him a unique figure, capable of bridging different worlds.
In the long term, Bhardwaj hopes to contribute to the growth of the fashion industry in India. He has expressed a desire to mentor young talent and create pathways for aspiring models to get international exposure. He also plans to work with Indian designers to bring their creations to a global audience, leveraging his platform to promote the rich and diverse fashion heritage of his homeland. This broader vision highlights Bhardwaj’s commitment not only to his career but also to the larger goal of changing how Indian fashion and talent are perceived on the world stage.
As Nakul Bhardwaj continues to make waves in the fashion world, his story will undoubtedly be remembered as one that broke barriers and set new standards. His journey from a small apartment in Delhi to the glamorous runways of Milan serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance, talent, and a strong sense of identity can lead to incredible success. With each new opportunity, Bhardwaj is proving that Indian models can not only compete on the world stage but also dominate it, and his legacy is only just beginning.