Debonair was founded in 1973 by Susheel Somani, the owner of the G. Claridge printing press. The first issue was published in April 1974. The magazine was originally modeled after Playboy and was best known for its topless female centerfolds. Early editors included Ashok Row Kavi and Anthony Van Braband. Vinod Mehta, who would later become a legendary figure in Indian journalism, also worked as an editor.
, introducing current models and how they represent the brand's shift toward a broader entertainment and lifestyle focus. Iconic Models & Categories
Explore how affected Indian publishing during this era. Share public link Debonair Magazine India Models
Collectors hunt for old issues on eBay and OLX. Young photographers study the vintage lighting techniques. For many Indian men of a certain generation, their first exposure to "adult" content was not via a smartphone, but by sneaking a peek at their father’s Debonair stash.
Over the years, Debonair Magazine has featured some of India's most talented and sought-after male models. These models have not only graced the pages of the magazine but have also walked the ramp for top designers, appeared in commercials, and worked with leading brands. Debonair was founded in 1973 by Susheel Somani,
: Though often associated with Bollywood's elite, several A-list actresses had early career features or covers that showcased their transition from modeling to stardom. Seema Kapoor
Iconic Supermodels and Bollywood Stars Who Started at Debonair The magazine was originally modeled after Playboy and
Are you interested in a specific of the magazine or the careers of a particular model? Debonair magazine's notable Indian contributors
While the magazine prided itself on literary pieces by notable Indian writers, the undeniable commercial engine was the "Centerfold." The unique selling proposition of Debonair was its insistence on . While international pornography was hard to come by in pre-internet India, Debonair offered indigenous "nudie centrefolds".