How Maleesha Kharwa’s chance encounter with a foreigner opened doors to modelling

Maleesha Kharwa, the 18-year-old model, at India Today Conclave Mumbai 2026, reflected on her journey from growing up in Mumbai’s Dharavi to becoming a model and the face of a popular skincare brand. Maleesha spoke about the chance encounter with a foreigner that changed her life, winning over her strict family and embracing her identity as a proud “brown girl baddie”.The young model also spoke about the women who inspire her. She admires Priyanka Chopra for building an international career and loves Deepika Padukone’s style and personality. She hopes to work with designer Sabyasachi one day, describing his designs as “so elegant and chic."Fondly known on the internet as the “Princess of Dharavi”, Maleesha came into the spotlight after actor Robert Hoffman spotted her. She later became the face of Forest Essentials’ Yuvati Selections campaign.Reflecting on her journey, she said there were limited opportunities for people from backgrounds like hers and hoped her story would encourage others to dream big. Alongside exploring ballet and contemporary jazz, she hopes to try acting someday.