These Indian models scorch the international ramps

The modelling industry by nature is highly competitive and extremely difficult to get into.

As the adage goes:  It's the survival of the fittest; it's particularly so in the world of international modelling. Only a handful are able to survive and  make a name for themselves.  However, there are few Indian models who've scorched the international ramps of Milan, New York and Paris to name a few, and have put themselves on the map. We take a look at some of them.

1. Anjali Mendes

The first international model from India, Anjali Phyllis Mendes was the face of Pierre Cardin's for 12 years (1971 to 1982). She was the first person to break the stereotype of light-skinned models. This dusky woman also modelled for well-known designers such as Givenchy, Elsa Schiaparelli and Emanuel Ungaro. 

2. Kirat Young 

She is known as the first supermodel from India. Young was only 19 when she met Yuves Saint Laurent in Paris in the late '70s. The meeting marked the birth of a superstar in the international fashion arena. In a short time, Young, who was known as the muse of Laurent, walked for top brands like Valentino, Chanel and Oscar de la Renta. 

3. Ujjwala Raut

She is known as 'India's most successful supermodel. Raut's modelling career began after she won the "Femina Look of the Year" in 1966. In her 21-year-long career, she has walked the ramp for almost all brands and designers including Gucci, Valentino, Hugo Boss, Dolce & Gabbana, Victoria's Secret, Roberto Cavalli,  Yves Saint Laurent and so on.

4. Padma Lakshmi

She was born in Kerala and spent her childhood in Chennai. Lakshmi is the discovery of a modelling agent. She met the agent at a cafe at the age of 20, and there was no looking back. Since then, Lakshmi has walked the runway for Emmanuel Ungaro, Ralph Lauren and Alberta Ferretti. She is also the host of US reality television programme 'Top Chef'.

5. Lakshmi Menon

This Bangalore-born model is an exception. She is the only Indian model to mark her presence on the international runways for the past nine years consistently. Menon started her international career with Jean Paul Gaultier which was followed by the works of Max Mara, Hermès, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, H&M, Givenchy, J Crew, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom. With her lanky figure and dusky complexion, she became the toast of the global fashion and was crowned "This Year's Model" for 2008 by Vogue.