From a subway platform to the world’s most iconic runways, Bhavitha Mandava continues to make history in the fashion industry. Discovered in a New York City subway station, Mandava quickly became a viral sensation. Later, making history as the first Indian model to open a Chanel Show and become Chanel’s First Indian House Ambassador.
While Mandava waited for the train on the Atlantic Avenue platform in Brooklyn, Showin Bishop, founder of 28Models, scouted Mandava. Mandava initially hesitated to take the opportunity but decided to accept as it would help pay off her student debt. Within two weeks of being scouted, Mandava caught the attention of Matthieu Blazy, a French-Belgian designer and then creative director of Bottega Veneta. Blazy cast Mandava in the Bottega Veneta spring 2025 show.
After Blazy became creative director at Chanel, he brought his muse with him. Mandava became the first Indian model to open the Chanel Métiers d’Art 2026 show, set in an abandoned New York City subway station. This moment not only marked a milestone in her career. It also showcased South Asian representation in an industry where they have long been underrepresented. Opening a Chanel show was a historic moment in Mandava’s journey as a fashion model. Walking on one of fashion’s most prestigious runways, Mandava made an impact on many.
After opening the Métiers d’Art show, Mandava posted a touching video of her parents cheering her from back home in India. The clip resonated with many. “Can’t put into words how much this means to me,” Mandava captioned the video on Instagram. Mandava also thanked Chanel and Blazy for trusting her to open the show.
Earlier this year, Mandava closed the Chanel haute couture show as the Chanel bride and appeared on the cover of British Vogue. In March, Chanel officially named Mandava a House Ambassador, becoming the first Indian model to hold the title. This role holds special meaning given the brand’s longstanding association with modern, independent women like Lupita Nyong’o.
Mandava earned her master’s degree in Integrated Design and Media at NYU in May 2025. While attending classes, working a campus job, and flying to Europe every weekend to model. Her determination and resilience set her apart.
Balancing education, work, and modeling while redefining representation in fashion. Mandava demonstrates elegance, modernity, and sophistication qualities perfect for a Chanel House ambassador.
Whether on or off the runway, Mandava is destined to influence a new generation of models and push traditional norms in haute couture.
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