This 21-Year-Old From Delhi Made History As Versace's First Indian Male Model

Nakul Bhardwaj, a 21-year-old model from Delhi, is making the country proud with his passion for modeling and impressive achievements on the international runway.

Nakul Bhardwaj made history as Versace’s first Indian male model to walk the runway at the Spring/Summer 2025 show during Milan Fashion Week.

Nakul Bhardwaj suffered from food poisoning before the show. He said, "As for physical challenges, just before the show, I suffered from food poisoning two times in a row. But I was locked in my head that this was my time. I hit the gym for 2 months and carefully crafted my physique without leaving room for errors. It all paid off in the end."

Nakul Bhardwaj recalls the moment he learned he was finalized by Versace. He told Hindustan Times, "I was at a friend's place in Milan and worried about not getting a callback from any of the castings I have been to. Just then, my phone rang and upon checking it was an email that said 'Job-Versace.' It was one of the best feelings I have ever experienced."

Nakul walked the ramp with Gigi Hadid and Vittoria Ceretti, two of the world’s highest-paid models. Gigi Hadid and Vittoria Ceretti. Vittoria is currently dating Oscar-winner Hollywood Superstar Leonardo DiCaprio. 

Nakul Bhardwaj told Hindustan Times, 'When Gigi and Vittoria strutted down and took their spots, my grin and nervousness were inevitably visible to everyone there. However, as soon as I floated down the runway, all of it vanished and I was already feeling like a supermodel in my head.' 

With Indian representation making a strong impact on the global runway, Nakul's success is a proud moment for him and the Indian modeling industry. He also walked for Ferragamo and Bottega Veneta SS25.