The 2027 Pirelli calendar, shot entirely in India, features an all-Indian cast highlighting the country's cultural richness.Models like Bhavitha Mandava, who rose from obscurity to become a fashion icon, and Anoushka Shankar, known for her innovative sitar music, are central to the project.

The calendar aims to showcase India's diverse beauty and craftsmanship, addressing past criticisms of Western fashion's lack of representation.

While the project initially planned to include renowned photographers Raghu Rai and Sølve Sundsbø, Rai's daughter Avani Rai took over after his passing, focusing on capturing India's contradictions and multiple coexisting cultures.

The calendar's emphasis on Indian artistry and heritage marks a shift from previous editions, reflecting growing global recognition of Indian fashion and craftsmanship.

However, the decision to feature nude and sensual imagery has sparked debate, with models like Padma Lakshmi emphasizing the importance of diverse representation in global fashion.

The project underscores India's evolving role in the international fashion landscape, balancing cultural pride with contemporary artistic expression.