Chanel Welcomes Ananya Panday As Brand Ambassador

Ananya Panday’s star continues to rise as she becomes the first Indian face of the iconic French fashion house, Chanel. The 26-year-old actor has been appointed India’s ambassador for the global luxury brand, marking a milestone moment for both the actor and the label.

In a statement to The Business of Fashion, the brand said, “Ananya characterises a generation of evolving tastes and fiercely independent identities who navigate the world with their curiosities. Her values resonate with Chanel, making her the perfect choice to represent the house.”

Ananya was part of Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2025 show at Paris Fashion Week in 2024. Taking to social media after the announcement, she shared her excitement: “The first ever ambassador for and from India. Dreams do come true.”

Since her debut in Student of the Year 2 (2019), Ananya has steadily carved a niche for herself in the industry. With performances in Gehraiyaan, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, CTRL, and the series Call Me Bae, she has emerged as a Gen Z favourite. Her influence extends beyond films — she’s one of the most sought-after faces in fashion and brand endorsements.

“She is the most successful of her generation of actors. She has worked hard and changed the narrative,” says a casting director.

With this appointment, Ananya joins a select group of Indian stars who are fronting global luxury brands —Deepika Padukone for Louis Vuitton, Alia Bhatt for Gucci, and Sonam Kapoor Ahuja for Dior — cementing India’s growing importance in the global fashion market.

“As a brand ambassador, she’ll not only sport Chanel’s collections but also represent its ethos. It doesn’t get better than this, especially with a label that stands for timeless elegance,” says a brand manager.