The innovative project highlights the talent of underprivileged youth, sparking conversations on empowerment and social issues.
Viral Fashion Show by Slum Kids Captivates India's Heart

Viral Fashion Show by Slum Kids Captivates India's Heart
Slum children in Lucknow showcase creativity through a fashion show made from recycled materials.
The fashion scene in India has taken an unexpected turn, as a viral video featuring slum children from Lucknow showcases their talent and creativity. This initiative has transformed the underprivileged kids into local celebrities, capturing the attention of social media.
Recently released footage shows a group of teens, predominantly girls aged 12 to 17, strutting their stuff in elegant red and gold outfits crafted from discarded clothing. This remarkable project was entirely designed and modeled by the children themselves against the backdrop of their slum environment, all captured through the lens of a 15-year-old boy who filmed and edited the entire show.
The video was initially shared by Innovation for Change, a non-governmental organization committed to supporting approximately 400 children from Lucknow’s slum areas by providing free meals, educational resources, and vocational training. The featured young models are part of this charity’s program.
One model, 16-year-old Mehak Kannojia, expressed how they researched fashion trends, often mimicking Bollywood actresses by utilizing inspiration drawn from notable designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s social media posts. This particular project, titled "Yeh laal rang" (The Colour Red), was inspired by Mukherjee's renowned bridal collection.
Over the course of just a few days, the girls managed to create around a dozen outfits, pouring their creativity into the process. Mehak noted, "We had a lot of fun," highlighting the collaborative spirit that fueled their efforts. They closely studied Sabyasachi’s models to perfect their runway walk, even incorporating playful moments during the shoot that added an authentic touch.
The project exemplified determination despite limited resources, with outfits pieced together from donated garments. Their work resonated widely and went viral after Mukherjee himself shared their video, drawing enthusiastic praise from across the country, with many lauding their creations as on par with professional craftsmanship.
Since the video went viral, the organization has gained substantial attention, leading to visits from media outlets, radio shows, and even Bollywood actress Tamannah Bhatia, who accepted a scarf from the children. Mehak shared the overwhelming reaction, saying, "It feels like a dream come true."
While the project has garnered praise, it has also sparked discussions regarding potential implications, particularly concerning the portrayal of young girls in bridal attire, raising concerns about child marriage in India. The Innovation for Change organization quickly addressed these worries by asserting that their mission is to empower these girls and challenge harmful societal norms.
"We are not promoting child marriage. The aim is for these girls to rise above constraints and foster hope," they stated, calling for support and appreciation of the children's achievements to help maintain their morale.
Through their vibrant expression of creativity and resilience, these young slum children continue to send a powerful message of hope and talent, creating ripples across India and beyond.
Recently released footage shows a group of teens, predominantly girls aged 12 to 17, strutting their stuff in elegant red and gold outfits crafted from discarded clothing. This remarkable project was entirely designed and modeled by the children themselves against the backdrop of their slum environment, all captured through the lens of a 15-year-old boy who filmed and edited the entire show.
The video was initially shared by Innovation for Change, a non-governmental organization committed to supporting approximately 400 children from Lucknow’s slum areas by providing free meals, educational resources, and vocational training. The featured young models are part of this charity’s program.
One model, 16-year-old Mehak Kannojia, expressed how they researched fashion trends, often mimicking Bollywood actresses by utilizing inspiration drawn from notable designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s social media posts. This particular project, titled "Yeh laal rang" (The Colour Red), was inspired by Mukherjee's renowned bridal collection.
Over the course of just a few days, the girls managed to create around a dozen outfits, pouring their creativity into the process. Mehak noted, "We had a lot of fun," highlighting the collaborative spirit that fueled their efforts. They closely studied Sabyasachi’s models to perfect their runway walk, even incorporating playful moments during the shoot that added an authentic touch.
The project exemplified determination despite limited resources, with outfits pieced together from donated garments. Their work resonated widely and went viral after Mukherjee himself shared their video, drawing enthusiastic praise from across the country, with many lauding their creations as on par with professional craftsmanship.
Since the video went viral, the organization has gained substantial attention, leading to visits from media outlets, radio shows, and even Bollywood actress Tamannah Bhatia, who accepted a scarf from the children. Mehak shared the overwhelming reaction, saying, "It feels like a dream come true."
While the project has garnered praise, it has also sparked discussions regarding potential implications, particularly concerning the portrayal of young girls in bridal attire, raising concerns about child marriage in India. The Innovation for Change organization quickly addressed these worries by asserting that their mission is to empower these girls and challenge harmful societal norms.
"We are not promoting child marriage. The aim is for these girls to rise above constraints and foster hope," they stated, calling for support and appreciation of the children's achievements to help maintain their morale.
Through their vibrant expression of creativity and resilience, these young slum children continue to send a powerful message of hope and talent, creating ripples across India and beyond.