Chanel has officially named Bollywood actor Ananya Panday as its first brand ambassador for India, highlighting the country’s growing importance in the global luxury landscape. This milestone not only cements Panday’s rising star status but also marks a significant move by the French fashion house as it deepens its roots in the Indian market.
At just 26, Panday has carved out a unique space for herself as a leading voice of her generation — both on screen and in the fashion world. With performances in critically and commercially successful titles like Call Me Bae (2024), Kho Gaye Hum Kahan (2023), and Gehraiyaan (2022), she has quickly risen through the ranks in Bollywood. The daughter of actor Chunky Panday and TV personality Bhavana Pandey, she has grown up in the spotlight — and now, she’s taking that global.
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“Ananya characterises a generation of evolving tastes and fiercely independent identities who navigate the world with their curiosities,” Chanel said in an exclusive statement to Business of Fashion. “Her values resonate with Chanel, making her the perfect choice to represent the house.”
Panday, reflecting on the partnership, said the brand represents “the essence of personal liberation, empowering one to boldly embrace their individuality with timeless elegance.”
By aligning with Panday — a Gen Z ‘It girl’ already associated with Swarovski and Jimmy Choo, and a regular face for brands like Lakmé, Beats, and Timex — Chanel is making a calculated move to connect with India’s next generation of luxury consumers.
While other Indian actresses such as Sonam Kapoor (Dior), Alia Bhatt (Gucci), and Deepika Padukone (Louis Vuitton, Cartier) have previously partnered with international luxury labels, Panday is the first from her generation to land a coveted ambassadorship with a legacy house like Chanel.
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