Who Is Bhavitha Mandava? Chanel’s Newest Ambassador

The fashion world has a new protagonist. Indian model Bhavitha Mandava has officially been named an ambassador for Chanel, a move that further cements her growing relationship with the house. Mandava had already made history last year when she appeared in Matthieu Blazy’s debut show for the brand, and her appointment now confirms that her presence within the French maison goes far beyond a one-off appearance.

Mandava’s story in the industry feels almost like something out of a film. Born in Hyderabad, in the state of Telangana, the Indian model has captured the attention of international fashion in a remarkably short time. Interestingly, before the runways and spotlights, her life was much closer to architectural plans than high heels. She graduated in Architecture from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University in India and later moved to the United States to continue her studies. There, she completed a double master’s degree in Integrated Design and Media and Human–Computer Interaction at New York University, building an academic profile that sounds more like an engineer’s CV than that of a future Chanel model.

What seemed like an ordinary day ended up changing everything. Mandava was discovered by a scout from the agency 28Models while casually travelling on the New York subway. From that moment on, her career began to take off rapidly, walking for houses such as Dior, Courrèges and Bottega Veneta, where she first started working with Matthieu Blazy — now Chanel’s creative director. Soon after came one of the most important milestones of her career: opening Chanel’s Métiers d’Art show in New York, becoming the first racialised model to open a show for the house. A moment that not only marked her career, but also wrote a new chapter in the brand’s history.

A New Chapter with Chanel

Matthieu Blazy himself expressed his excitement about continuing to work with her. In the official announcement, the designer highlighted Mandava’s personality and energy, describing her as intelligent, grounded and full of contagious joy. For the fashion house, her appointment as ambassador represents a new stage that blends Chanel’s historic legacy with a fresh and contemporary outlook.

Mandava also shared what the moment means for her career. The model said she strongly identifies with Chanel’s spirit, which she sees as a symbol of the modern, active woman. She also praised Blazy’s vision for the house, noting that it balances respect for tradition with a genuine sense of joy. With this new chapter beginning, it seems clear that their collaboration is only just getting started — and it promises to be one to watch in the fashion world.

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