Elnaaz Nourozi reflects on representation in the fashion industry

Sacred Games actress and model Elnaaz Nourozi returned to her roots as the showstopper at Runway Raaga, where celebrity fashion designer Ken Ferns unveiled his latest collection. Having begun her modelling career in Germany at the age of 14, Elnaaz spoke about how the runway remains one of the most special spaces for her, even after expanding into acting and music. 

For me, there is no real difference,” she declared, speaking about the transition from photoshoots and advertisements to being a showstopper. “Before I did anything else, I was walking the ramp". While she has explored many creative avenues since, she feels nothing compares to the excitement of being on the runway.

Backstage, Elnaaz found herself completely immersed in Ken Ferns` collection. Sharing her first impression of the designs, she said, “The outfits blew me away. I almost forgot I was about to walk next because I was so taken by the designs. I kept saying, `I want this outfit, I want to wear that outfit over there,`" the Mastiii 4 actress laughed.

Elnaaz Nourozi on choosing projects with a social impact

The show opened with a powerful sequence curated by Chopsy Oberoi, featuring models with vitiligo, a moment which deeply resonated with Elnaaz.

Having recently walked as a showstopper for a Cancer Awareness Charity Gala, Elnaaz reaffirmed her commitment to championing social causes.

"Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease that’s rarely spoken about,” she said. “It’s also something that really takes a toll on people mentally, especially in an industry where your appearance is constantly under scrutiny. Even actors, we`re all conscious, and everybody consciously wants to look perfect." Elnaaz highlighted how the industry pressures models and actors to look flawless, making the inclusion of models with vitiligo on the runway even more impactful.

Reflecting on representation in fashion, she remarked, “Seeing that there are models who are actually being taken for jobs like what we do, where your face is visible, where your body is visible, and then seeing designers giving these people a chance is beautiful. I love it. It shows how powerful the runway can be as a platform for representation and change."

Ken Ferns` Show

Runway Raaga - Curtain Raiser set The Mills, Pune, conceptualised by Shruti Bengre, Founder & Owner of Merakianz Media House (MMH), was an elegant celebration of luxury, inclusivity, and elevated fashion storytelling.

Ken Ferns presented Silverblood - The Alchemy of Element 80, a collection inspired by Mercury, the only metal that exists in a fluid state. Translating scientific inspiration into couture, the collection explored transformation and movement through modern, sculptural design.

Fluid silhouettes flowed across the runway, complemented by metallic finishes and intricate hand embroidery inspired by molecular structures and atomic motion. A dramatic palette of gunmetal, chrome, icy silver, oxidised blues, and deep crimson reflected the shifting moods of the element, positioning Silverblood as a statement of contemporary couture - dynamic, expressive, and visually commanding.

Ferns emphasised staying true to one’s craft.“I don`t believe in sales. I`m an artist. It`s my showcase. It`s my art. People just need to trust their craft,” Ferns said, calling it both “one of the most beautiful” and “risky” things as an artist.