Goa, India – August 31, 2025:
India celebrates a historic moment in global pageantry as Nithin Kandalam from Bengaluru is crowned Mr. Universe International 2025 – Season 1 Winner at the Dr. Shyam Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, Goa, during the prestigious Yash International Fashion Week (YIFW). The grand event, hosted under the leadership of Dr. Yash Ramu, marked a new milestone for Indian fashion, fitness, and pageantry excellence.
Rising Star of Indian Pageantry
At just 20 years old, Nithin Kandalam has emerged as one of India’s most promising male models and titleholders. Standing tall at 6 feet 1 inch, Nithin represents a new generation of confident, disciplined, and purpose-driven youth redefining global pageantry.
Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology, Forensic Science, and Cyber Law from RV University, Bengaluru, Nithin perfectly balances academics and modeling — an impressive blend of intellect and charisma that sets him apart in the fashion industry.
The Crowning Moment in Goa
The Mr. Universe International 2025 Grand Finale brought together contestants from around the world to compete across talent, physique, and personality rounds. Nithin impressed judges and audiences with his confidence, communication skills, and commanding stage presence.
Along with the main crown, he also received special awards for:
- Best Walk
- Best Physique
- People’s Choice Award
He was crowned by Mr. Angga Pry Handoko from Indonesia — International Director and Founder & CEO of Sahabat Management Indonesia and Sahabat Prestasi International.
Journey of Transformation and Discipline
In Nithin’s own words:
“My real transformation began when I focused on fitness. It gave me confidence and showed me the path toward modeling and pageantry.”
Balancing rigorous training sessions with academic responsibilities, Nithin built his success on unwavering discipline and family support. His life mantra —
“Discipline is the bridge between dreams and success,”
has now become a source of inspiration for aspiring models and fitness enthusiasts across India.
From Mr. India to Mr. Universe
Before achieving global fame, Nithin had already earned several national and international titles, including:
- Mr. International India 2023
- Mr. World International 2024
As a professional model, he has served as a Brand Ambassador and Show Stopper for top e-commerce giants like Flipkart, Amazon, and Snapdeal, and has graced numerous runways and editorial shoots nationwide.
Mentorship and Role Models
Nithin draws motivation from Hrithik Roshan for his commitment to fitness and credits Dr. Yash Ramu, the founder of Yash International Fashion Week, for shaping his professional journey.
According to Nithin:
“Dr. Yash Ramu’s guidance taught me that true pageantry isn’t just about the crown — it’s about confidence, leadership, and purpose.”
Through YIFW, he received world-class grooming and exposure that refined his presentation and global appeal.
Family Support and Cultural Pride
Behind Nithin’s success is the unwavering support of his family. He dedicates his crown to his parents, Ravikumar and Padma, and his grandparents, Shivaprasad and Rajalakshmi. Proudly representing his Padmashali community, Nithin often shares how his mother’s belief in him has been his greatest strength.
“My mom has been my backbone and guiding light. Every step I take is because she believed in me,” he says with gratitude.
Future Goals and Global Vision
With his sights set on international fashion platforms, Nithin Kandalam aims to represent India at global fashion weeks and collaborate with luxury brands such as Versace, Armani, Balmain, Sabyasachi, and Manish Malhotra.
Beyond modeling, Nithin aspires to enter acting and lead motivational fitness campaigns to inspire Indian youth toward confidence, discipline, and healthy living.
About Mr. Universe International & YIFW
Mr. Universe International is a global male pageant organized by Yash International Fashion Week (YIFW) under the visionary direction of Dr. Yash Ramu. The platform celebrates global talent across categories — Men, Women, Teens, and Kids — promoting beauty, confidence, and purpose-driven representation on an international stage.
Conclusion
Nithin Kandalam’s story is not just about winning a crown — it’s about transforming dreams into reality through hard work, focus, and belief. His evolution from a fitness enthusiast to an international pageant icon exemplifies the modern Indian spirit — intelligent, ambitious, and globally admired.
At just 20, Nithin has already made history, and with his determination, the world can expect to see much more from this rising Indian star. His journey continues to motivate a generation that dares to dream big and achieve even bigger.
