From Deepika Padukone to Priyanka Chopra: How Indian stars are wooing international luxury brands – Times of India

The Indian film industry, has a global footprint that extends far beyond the country’s borders. With a massive fan base across continents, Bollywood stars are not just celebrated for their acting skills but also for their fashion sense and influence. This widespread appeal has made Indian film stars highly attractive to international luxury brands looking to tap into the burgeoning Indian market and the global Indian diaspora.

Let’s unravel how Indian film stars are becoming the face of international luxury brands, the strategies they employ, and the impact of these partnerships on both the brands and the celebrities.
The rising influence of Bollywood on global fashion
Bollywood stars have long been trendsetters in India, but their influence is now being recognized on a global scale. Actresses like Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, Aishwarya Rai, Alia Bhatt, and actors like Ranveer Singh have walked the red carpets of Cannes and the Met Gala, garnering international media attention. Their presence at these high-profile events has not only showcased their personal style but also highlighted the richness of Indian fashion and culture.
A critical factor in this rising influence is social media. Indian film stars have millions of followers on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For example, Priyanka Chopra has over 91 million followers on Instagram, Deepika Padukone boasts around 79 million followers, and Alia Bhatt has amassed over 84 million followers. These numbers are significant for luxury brands that seek to reach a broad and engaged audience. A single post from these stars can generate substantial attention and drive consumer behavior.
The case they are making

Priyanka Chopra and Bulgari
Priyanka Chopra, one of the most internationally recognised Indian actresses, became a global ambassador for Bulgari in 2021. Bulgari, an Italian luxury brand known for its exquisite jewellery and watches, saw in Chopra a blend of global appeal and Indian heritage. This partnership is a strategic move to cater to the brand’s growing market in India and among Indian communities worldwide.
The impact of this partnership has been significant. Bulgari’s association with Priyanka Chopra has significantly boosted its visibility in India. According to market analysts, there was a noticeable uptick in Bulgari’s sales in India following the announcement of Chopra as their ambassador. Additionally, Bulgari’s posts featuring Chopra receive higher engagement rates compared to other content, highlighting the effectiveness of this collaboration.

Deepika Padukone and Louis Vuitton
In 2020, Deepika Padukone became the first Indian actress to be signed by Louis Vuitton as their brand ambassador. Known for her impeccable style and elegance, Padukone represents the perfect blend of modernity and tradition, qualities that resonate well with Louis Vuitton’s brand ethos.
This collaboration has enhanced market penetration, with Louis Vuitton seeing increased footfall in their Indian stores and a rise in online sales. Padukone’s Indian heritage helps Louis Vuitton to connect more deeply with Indian consumers, fostering a stronger brand-customer relationship. The partnership also garnered extensive media coverage, enhancing the brand’s image both in India and globally.

Hrithik Roshan and Rado
Hrithik Roshan, known for his exceptional acting skills and striking good looks, has been the face of Rado, a Swiss luxury watch brand, for several years. His association with Rado underscores the brand’s commitment to elegance, precision, and innovation.
Roshan’s consistent association with Rado has fostered brand loyalty among his fans, contributing to the brand’s strong market presence in India. Rado has successfully positioned itself as a premium brand in the Indian market, partly due to Roshan’s endorsement. His participation in Rado events has significantly boosted the brand’s profile, drawing attention from media and consumers alike.

Alia Bhatt and Gucci
Alia Bhatt, one of the younger generation’s most influential Bollywood actresses, was named the brand ambassador for Gucci in 2022. Her fresh and youthful image aligns perfectly with Gucci’s modern and eclectic brand ethos. Alia’s fashion-forward choices and her significant influence among younger audiences make her an ideal fit for Gucci.
Gucci has been able to reach a younger demographic through Alia Bhatt, enhancing the brand’s appeal among millennials and Gen Z. Bhatt’s association has strengthened Gucci’s image as a youthful and dynamic brand. Posts featuring Alia in Gucci attire have generated substantial buzz, with high engagement rates on social media platforms, further solidifying the brand’s presence.

Kartik Aaryan and Superdry
Kartik Aaryan, a rising star in Bollywood known for his boy-next-door charm and relatable persona, became the face of Superdry in 2021. Superdry, a semi-luxury and premium British clothing brand known for its casual and sporty style, saw in Aaryan the perfect ambassador to resonate with young, fashion-conscious consumers in India.
Aaryan’s association with Superdry has been particularly impactful in terms of youth engagement. Superdry has successfully leveraged Aaryan’s influence to reach a younger demographic, enhancing the brand’s appeal among millennials and Gen Z. The partnership has also helped to strengthen Superdry’s image as a trendy and dynamic brand. Aaryan’s posts featuring Superdry outfits have generated significant buzz on social media, driving higher engagement rates and increasing brand visibility.

Ranveer Singh and Tiffany & Co.
Ranveer Singh, known for his vibrant personality and eclectic fashion sense, became an ambassador for Tiffany & Co. in 2023. Tiffany & Co., a renowned American luxury jewellery brand, saw in Singh the perfect blend of boldness and sophistication. His unique style and charisma align with the brand’s commitment to innovation and timeless elegance.
Singh’s association with Tiffany & Co. has brought a fresh and dynamic perspective to the brand. His ability to blend traditional Indian attire with contemporary fashion has made him a standout figure. This partnership has not only increased Tiffany & Co.’s visibility in India but also attracted a younger, more diverse audience globally. Singh’s posts featuring Tiffany & Co. pieces have seen high engagement, further enhancing the brand’s presence in the luxury market.

Strategies employed by the stars
Bollywood stars employ various strategies to appeal to international luxury brands. One such strategy is building a global persona. Stars like Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone have carved out successful careers in Hollywood, which enhances their global appeal. By participating in international projects and appearing at global events, they increase their visibility and attractiveness to luxury brands.
Another key strategy is leveraging social media. With millions of followers, Bollywood stars use social media to engage with fans and showcase their association with luxury brands. Their posts often feature branded content, which helps in promoting the products and increasing brand awareness. Additionally, showcasing versatility is crucial. Indian film stars are known for their versatility, not just in acting but also in fashion. By experimenting with different styles and looks, they keep their audience engaged and create a dynamic personal brand that luxury brands find appealing.
Cultural representation also plays a significant role. Bollywood stars often represent a blend of modern and traditional values, which makes them relatable to a wide audience. This cultural representation is valuable for luxury brands looking to tap into the Indian market and the global Indian diaspora.
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The impact on international luxury brands
The association with Bollywood stars has several benefits for international luxury brands. Firstly, it aids in market expansion. India is one of the fastest-growing markets for luxury goods. The association with Bollywood stars helps brands to penetrate this market more effectively. According to Bain & Company, the Indian luxury market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.6% from 2021 to 2025.

Moreover, Bollywood stars bring with them a sense of glamour and sophistication that enhances the brand image. Their endorsement adds a layer of credibility and aspirational value to the brand. The influence of Bollywood stars on consumer behavior is significant. Their endorsement often leads to increased sales, both in India and globally. For instance, after Deepika Padukone became the face of Louis Vuitton, there was a reported increase in the brand’s sales in India.
Additionally, Bollywood stars have a massive social media following, which brands can leverage for increased engagement. Posts featuring these stars often receive higher likes, comments, and shares, translating to better brand visibility and consumer interaction.

The challenges
While the collaboration between Bollywood stars and luxury brands has many benefits, there are also challenges and considerations. Not all Bollywood stars may be a perfect fit for every luxury brand. Brands need to carefully select ambassadors whose image and persona align with their brand values.
Brands also need to be sensitive to the cultural nuances and preferences of the Indian market. Missteps can lead to backlash and damage the brand’s reputation. Building a successful partnership requires a long-term commitment from both the brand and the celebrity. Short-term associations may not yield the desired results and can sometimes dilute the brand’s impact.

Future trends
The trend of Bollywood stars partnering with international luxury brands is likely to continue and evolve. One future trend to watch for is increased diversity. As the global luxury market continues to expand, there will be a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Bollywood stars, with their diverse backgrounds and global appeal, will play a crucial role in this trend.
Digital collaborations will also become more prominent. With the rise of digital platforms, collaborations between Bollywood stars and luxury brands will increasingly focus on digital content. Virtual fashion shows, digital campaigns, and influencer marketing will become more significant.

Sustainable fashion is another key focus for the future. As sustainability becomes a key focus for the fashion industry, Bollywood stars will likely endorse luxury brands that emphasize eco-friendly practices and sustainable fashion.
Indian film stars have become a powerful force in the world of international luxury brands. Their global appeal, massive social media following, and ability to bridge cultural divides make them ideal ambassadors for high-end brands looking to expand their market presence. Through strategic partnerships and innovative marketing, Bollywood stars are not only enhancing their own brand value but also driving the growth and success of the luxury brands they represent. As this trend continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how these collaborations shape the future of fashion and luxury on a global scale.