In a testament to perseverance and self-belief, 20-year-old Mumbai native Deepak Gupta has transformed from being told he could “never be a Louis Vuitton model” to walking the runway for the prestigious French fashion house. His inspiring journey, recently shared on Instagram, has captivated millions and earned recognition from Bollywood celebrities.
The viral video that captivated millions
Gupta’s viral video, which has garnered over 37 million views, begins with a humble throwback photo of himself in a simple white T-shirt and trousers — a stark contrast to his current success. The transformation documented in his reel takes viewers behind the scenes of his groundbreaking Louis Vuitton show preparation, from the meticulous nail care and hair styling to the final moments before hitting the runway.
A defining moment on the Louis Vuitton runway
The culmination of his hard work is captured in striking footage of Gupta dressed in a bold ensemble featuring a camouflage-printed jacket, animal-print trousers, an ochre cap, and tinted shades. In one particularly poignant moment, he poses confidently with a mood board bearing his name — a powerful symbol of his arrival in the upper echelons of fashion.
Watch the video here:
His success has not gone unnoticed in the entertainment industry, with acclaimed actors Hrithik Roshan and Nargis Fakhri among those celebrating his achievement. Gupta’s caption on the viral post — “Because why not” — encapsulates the defiant spirit that drove him to overcome initial rejection and skepticism.
Many users congratulated him as well. With one user commenting, “I don’t know you but I’m so happy for you.” Another added, “As if he was born for this.” Another person wrote, “Nothing is impossible!”
Now an established presence in the fashion industry, the model’s portfolio extends beyond Louis Vuitton to include work with other major fashion brands. His journey from a young Mumbai boy facing rejection to walking for one of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses serves as a powerful reminder that determination and hard work can transform seemingly impossible dreams into reality.
As his story continues to inspire millions online, Gupta’s success reinforces a timeless message: dreams don’t work unless you do.