Mumbai marked a defining moment in the evolution of India’s fashion and modelling industry as Ford Models conducted its first-ever open casting in the country at Jio World Drive in Bandra Kurla Complex on May 16, 2026. The landmark event attracted an overwhelming response, with more than 1,500 aspiring models participating and over 600 registrations recorded in Mumbai, underscoring India’s expanding influence in the global fashion and modelling ecosystem.
Recognised worldwide for discovering and shaping some of the most iconic faces in fashion over the past eight decades, Ford Models brought its celebrated international scouting legacy to India through a distinguished jury panel comprising leading industry professionals from Paris, New York, Barcelona, and other major fashion capitals. The initiative represented a major step in strengthening India’s presence in the international modelling industry, with participants travelling from several cities for the rare opportunity to present themselves directly before one of the world’s most influential modelling agencies.
Following a rigorous and detailed assessment process, 20 finalists were shortlisted for the next stage of consideration, where they may be evaluated for international modelling opportunities. The jury personally reviewed and scored each participant on critical parameters including runway potential, confidence, personality, versatility, and suitability for international markets.
The prestigious panel included Phonetip Sisavath, Agent at Ford Paris Women Board; Eddy Martin, Agent at Ford Paris Men Board; Fabio Monceri, Senior Image Manager at Ford New York City and Barcelona; Victoria Da Silva, Chief Executive Officer of Le Grand Casting; and Parthiva Hirdaramani, Chief Executive Officer of Panthera Management Agency.
The event witnessed long queues of hopeful models outside the venue, reflecting the scale of enthusiasm surrounding Ford Models’ debut in India. For many participants, the casting served as a direct gateway to the global fashion industry, offering unprecedented visibility before some of the world’s leading scouts and talent agencies.
Fashion industry professionals, digital creators, enthusiasts, and media representatives gathered to witness what is being described as one of the most significant international scouting initiatives held in India in recent years. The large-scale turnout and global participation highlighted the growing recognition of Indian talent on the world stage.
With Ford Models now officially scouting in India, the event signals a transformative shift in the international fashion industry’s increasing focus on Indian talent, diversity, and representation. The Mumbai casting not only opened doors for aspiring models but also reinforced India’s emergence as a powerful and indispensable force in the global fashion landscape.
Ford Models was founded in 1946 in New York and remains one of the world’s most influential modelling agencies, with offices in Paris, Barcelona, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Brazil. Panthera Management Agency operates across Sri Lanka and India and represents leading personalities, including Elina Gunawardena. Le Grand Casting is an international scouting platform that collaborates with leading model agencies worldwide to organise premium casting events.
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