Over a decade ago, a young boy from Bikaner, Rajasthan, arrived in Mumbai—the city of dreams—with little more than ambition and belief in himself. What began as a hopeful step into modelling soon transformed into a journey that would leave a lasting mark on the industry. He went on to create history by becoming the first Indian model to win the Best International Model of the Year award at one of the world’s most prestigious male modelling competitions. To date, he remains the only Indian model to have received the Best Model award three times—an achievement that firmly cemented his place in the industry. Over the years, he has walked at leading fashion weeks and collaborated with some of the most renowned fashion houses across the world. From an engineering student to one of India’s most versatile and established faces in fashion, his story is one of relentless discipline, resilience, and the courage to move forward despite setbacks. A former Mr. India and a model with over a decade of experience, Prateek Baid represents the perfect blend of precision and passion.
In this exclusive interview with Pristine Magazine, he reflects on his journey through the ever-evolving fashion industry and shares what lies ahead in the next chapter of his career.
Q1: Having been part of the Indian fashion industry for over a decade, how have you seen it evolve and what changes do you anticipate in the future?
Answer: The Indian fashion industry has undergone a tremendous transformation over the past decade. From being largely traditional and localized, it's now far more global in its outlook. There's a rising appreciation for individuality and diversity, which has opened up space for new faces and experimental styles. In the future, I see technology playing an even bigger role—whether it's virtual fashion, AI-driven campaigns, or sustainable practices becoming the norm. It's an exciting time to be part of this evolution.
Q2: You are recognized as one of the most versatile male models in the Indian fashion industry. What qualities do you believe have been key to your success?
Answer: Thank you!! I think adaptability and consistency have been major pillars of my journey. I’ve always believed in putting in the hard work behind the scenes, whether that means staying fit, being punctual, or understanding the brand’s vision thoroughly. Also, staying grounded and being professional has helped me build long-term relationships in the industry.
Q3: Unlike many other models, you are not very active on social media and your profile features only selected content. Is there a specific reason behind this approach?
Answer: I’ve always believed in quality over quantity—both in life and online. For me, social media is a tool, not a lifestyle. I prefer to keep my space curated, meaningful, and real rather than constantly sharing content just for the sake of it. I think a bit of mystery adds to the charm.
Q4: You hold a degree in mechanical engineering. What inspired you to transition from engineering to modelling?
Answer: It was quite an organic shift. I’ve always had an artistic side and was drawn to the world of aesthetics and expression. Winning Mr India was a turning point—it gave me a platform to explore modelling seriously. It started as a passion, but once I stepped into it, I realized this was where I truly belonged.
Q5: Indian men’s fashion has evolved significantly over the years. What is one common style mistake men make, and what is one underrated trend you think deserves more attention?
Answer: Personally, I’ve always leaned towards formals—there’s something timeless and powerful about a well-fitted suit. One common mistake I see is people chasing trends without understanding what actually suits them. Style is personal. Just because something is in vogue doesn’t mean it works for everyone. As for underrated style, I think classic tailoring—sharp, minimal, and clean—will always stand out, and it deserves more love, especially in a world full of fast fashion.
Q6: Do you think Indian standards of male beauty differ from global expectations? Have you ever had to adapt your look to meet international standards?
Answer: I believe beauty isn’t something that should be boxed into a specific standard—whether Indian or global. Everyone has their own features, their own style, and that uniqueness is what makes them stand out. I’ve never felt the need to drastically change myself to fit in. You just need to polish your look, carry yourself well, and most importantly, be confident in who you are. Indian beauty, in all its diversity, is appreciated across the world. And today, authenticity is more powerful than conformity. What truly matters is how you express yourself—not how closely you align with a trend.
Q7: Beyond modelling, are there any other passions or career paths you aspire to explore?
Answer: Yes, acting is something I’ve been preparing for and deeply passionate about. It gives me a different kind of creative satisfaction—stepping into new characters, telling stories. I’ve been fortunate to get good feedback on my acting ability, and I’m looking forward to exploring that path more seriously. I also have a long-standing love for cars and bikes. They’re more than just machines to me—they’re a blend of art and engineering, and I see myself doing something in that space eventually too.
Image source: Prateek Baid.
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