Liputan6.com, Jakarta Maleesha Kharwa is an Indian model and social media influencer known for her inspiring journey from growing up in the slums of Mumbai (specifically Dharavi) to becoming a recognized face in the fashion and beauty industry. Born in 2008 to Gujarati parents, she was raised by her father, who supports the family by working as a clown at children's events. Despite facing challenging living conditions, she dreamed of becoming a model from a very young age.
Her big break came in 2020 when American actor and dancer Robert Hoffman met her during a visit to Mumbai. Impressed by her potential, he helped her set up an Instagram account and launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her modeling dreams. Since then, Maleesha has gained significant popularity, appearing in major fashion magazines such as Cosmopolitan India, Grazia, Elle, and Vogue.
In 2023, she became the face of Forest Essentials' "Yuvati" collection, a luxury beauty and skincare brand. Through her platform, she advocates for underprivileged communities and encourages young girls to embrace their natural beauty. Her story is often celebrated as a modern-day "rags to riches" and an inspiring narrative about hope, determination, and breaking societal barriers.
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As of early 2025, Maleesha has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers on Instagram and continues to inspire many with her personal and professional journey.
Maleesha Kharwa grew up in Mumbai’s infamous Dharavi slum.
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Maleesha Kharwa became a model and popular after accidentally meeting American actor Robert Hoffman 3 years ago.
During a music video shoot, Robert Hoffman noticed Maleesha.
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He posted a video of her on social media. It quickly went viral and made her famous globally.
She has been on the covers of famous international fashion magazines such as Vogue and Cosmopolitan.
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Maleesha used her earnings from modeling to improve her family's living conditions. They into a more comfortable one-room apartment with electricity, a ceiling fan, and tap water.
She also became the face of luxury beauty brand Forest Essentials' campaign 'The Yuvati Collection.' Her Instagram has 378k followers.
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