Bangalore, Karnataka, 7th of September, 2026 : Marking a significant moment on Bengaluru’s fashion calendar, the Phoenix Mega Model Hunt 2026 by Prasad Bidapa concluded on Saturday, 5th September, with a spectacular Grand Finale at Phoenix Marketcity Bengaluru. Celebrating 40 years of Prasad Bidapa’s legacy of discovering and nurturing modelling talent, the evening brought together emerging faces, leading fashion and lifestyle brands and celebrity presence for a high-energy celebration of fashion, confidence and new talent.
The 2026 edition saw an overwhelming response, with 3,000+ registrations from aspiring models across Bengaluru. Following auditions and screening, 80 finalists were shortlisted for the Grand Finale rehearsals, with grooming and training led by industry experts Prasad Bidapa, Kevin Oliver, Arry Dabas, Shamsher Singh Rana, Nayanika Chatterjee, Anil Hosamani, Judith Bidapa, Nikos Narkissos, Poonacha and Rahul.
The grand finale saw Parimala and Kushal emerge as Runway winners; Thejal and Pratham as Print winners; Tanisha and Ajay as Body winners in association with Jockey; Ananika and Sumit as Creator winners; Deanne and Keith as Skin & Hair winners in association with Dr. Karishma Aesthetics; Prakruti and Atharv as Groomed winners in association with Hivado; Mihika and Dr. Rahul as Bollywood winners; Vrudi and Rahul L as Sandalwood winners; and Shamita and Trishul as TV winners. Greta and Himaja received Special Mentions.
The finalists underwent intensive training and grooming in runway walk, posing, choreography, styling, presentation, theatre and acting, photography and modelling psychology under leading industry experts.
The runway came alive with collections from the collaborating fashion and lifestyle brands, including Superdry, Levi’s, Mango, Hunkemöller, Jockey, Taruni and Mohanlal, showcasing an eclectic mix of contemporary fashion and style.
Adding to the glamour of the evening, Rannvijay Singha joined the Grand Finale as the showstopper, bringing his star power to an evening that celebrated Bengaluru’s emerging modelling talent and the aspirations of a new generation of fashion enthusiasts.
Ritu Mehta, Director, Marketing- (South & Pune), & Centre Director – Mall of Asia said: “Phoenix Marketcity has always believed in creating experiences that bring together fashion, culture, entertainment and the city’s vibrant community. Our association with the Phoenix Mega Model Hunt by Prasad Bidapa is a natural extension of that vision. The overwhelming response to this year’s edition and the energy we witnessed at the Grand Finale are a testament to the incredible pool of young talent in Bengaluru. We are delighted to provide a platform where aspiring models can experience the spotlight, showcase their potential and take an important first step towards their dreams. We look forward to seeing these emerging faces grow and make their mark in the fashion and entertainment industry.”
Gajendra Singh Rathore, President- Malls (South & Pune), added: “The Phoenix Mega Model Hunt 2026 is a celebration of Bengaluru’s vibrant fashion ecosystem and the extraordinary talent emerging from the city. At Phoenix Marketcity, we are proud to create platforms that bring together fashion, culture, talent and community, while giving aspiring models an opportunity to showcase their potential and experience the energy of the industry. The response to this year’s edition and the calibre of the finalists are a testament to the aspirations of a new generation of talent. We are delighted to be part of a platform that continues Prasad Bidapa’s legacy of discovering and nurturing new faces in Indian fashion.”
The 2026 edition marks a significant milestone in Bidapa’s four-decade journey of identifying and shaping recognised faces in Indian fashion, with his ecosystem associated with names including Deepika Padukone, Anushka Sharma, John Abraham, Dino Morea, Jacqueline Fernandez, Medha Rana and Nidhi Agerwal.
Beyond the title, winners will receive The Bidapa Advantage, an exclusive one-year contract with Prasad Bidapa Models, along with mentorship, grooming, portfolio development and access to Bidapa’s fashion and modelling network and leading platforms.
With its spectacular runway, emerging talent, leading fashion brands and celebrity presence, the Phoenix Mega Model Hunt 2026 celebrated the next generation of modelling talent while continuing Prasad Bidapa’s four-decade legacy of discovering and creating new faces for Indian fashion.
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