Andleeb Zaidi is not just a name in the modeling world—she’s a story of courage, ambition, and transformation. Born in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, and now based in Mumbai, Andleeb has carved a space for herself in the Indian fashion industry. While many first noticed her as the wife of television actor Ali Merchant, her journey began long before that. She stepped into the spotlight in 2015 and has since built a career that reflects her passion for fashion, her love for animals, and her belief in self-expression.
Her rise in the modeling world wasn’t just about beauty—it was about breaking barriers. From being a finalist in major pageants like Femina Miss India and Campus Princess to gracing magazine covers, Andleeb has shown that determination can overcome judgment. Her story is especially powerful because she faced criticism from her own community for choosing modeling as a career. Her open letter titled “Life of a Muslim Girl Turned Model” went viral in 2016, sparking conversations about identity, choice, and freedom.
Early Life & Background
Andleeb was born on June 18, 1997, in Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh. Known for its rich culture, history, and architecture, Lucknow shaped her early years. She grew up in a family that followed Islam, and she belongs to the Shia community. Her mother tongue is Urdu, and she often speaks about how her cultural roots helped shape her personality and values.
Being a Muslim woman in the modeling industry came with challenges. Andleeb has talked about how some relatives tried to shame her for her career choices. But she didn’t let that stop her. Her viral Facebook post in 2016 was a turning point. In it, she wrote about the judgment she faced and how she chose to rise above it. The post was shared widely and led to interviews with major news outlets. It showed that she wasn’t just a model—she was a voice for change.
Family and Siblings
Andleeb’s family played a big role in her journey. Her younger sister, Aynab Zaidi, is also a model. The two sisters share a close bond and have supported each other through their careers. Aynab has walked the ramp and appeared in fashion campaigns, and together, they represent a new generation of confident, independent women from traditional backgrounds.
While Andleeb has kept many details about her parents private, she has spoken openly about her father’s support. When she faced backlash for wearing a bikini during a pageant photoshoot, it was her father who stood by her. He encouraged her to follow her dreams and helped her stay strong during tough times. Her mother, though initially hesitant, eventually came around and supported her daughter’s choices.
Andleeb Zaidi Wiki | BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andleeb Aeliya Zaidi |
| Profession | Indian Model |
| Known For | Being Ali Merchant’s wife |
| Years Active | 2015 – Present |
| Date of Birth | June 18, 1997 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 28 Years |
| Birthplace | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Current City | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Islam |
| Caste | Shia |
| Mother Tongue | Urdu |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Height | 173 cm (5ft 8in) |
| Weight | 56 kg |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Ali Merchant (Actor) |
| Marriage Date | November 2, 2023 |
| Sister | Aynab Zaidi (Model) |
| School | Delhi Public School, Lucknow |
| College | NIFT, Hyderabad |
| Qualification | Graduate |
| Major Pageants | Campus Princess 2016 Finalist |
| Femina Miss India 2016 South Finalist | |
| Femina Miss India 2018 Finalist | |
| Max Elite Model Look Hunt 2016 Finalist | |
| Magazine Feature | Wow Magazine (September 2019 Cover) |
| Net Worth (Approximate) | ₹5 crore INR |
| Languages Spoken | Urdu, Hindi, English |
| Pets | 12 Cats, 2 Dogs |
| @andleeb_zaidi/ |
Education & Formative Years
Andleeb studied at Delhi Public School (DPS), Lucknow, one of the city’s top schools. DPS is known for its focus on academics and extracurricular activities. It was here that Andleeb began to explore her interests in fashion and design. Teachers and classmates remember her as a bright student who was always curious and creative.
After finishing school, Andleeb moved to Hyderabad to study at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). NIFT is one of India’s top fashion schools, and getting in is no small feat. At NIFT, she studied fashion design and learned about textiles, styling, and branding. Her time at college was a turning point. It was here that she first modeled for a senior’s project—and that one experience changed everything.
Entry into the Fashion World
Andleeb’s journey into modeling began during her second year at NIFT Hyderabad. She was working on a college project when a senior asked her to model for it. That one experience changed everything. She realized she enjoyed being in front of the camera and started thinking about modeling as a career.
At just 19 years old, she auditioned for the Femina Miss India 2016 pageant. She was selected as a finalist for the South Zone, which was a big achievement for someone so new to the industry. Her participation included a bikini photoshoot, which later became a turning point in her life.
Physical Appearance
Andleeb stands tall at 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) and maintains a healthy weight of around 56 kg. Her black hair and black eyes give her a striking look that complements her modeling persona. She has a slim build, which she maintains through regular fitness routines and a balanced lifestyle. Her thick eyebrows and expressive eyes are often highlighted in her photoshoots, adding depth to her facial expressions.
Her physical appearance is not just about measurements—it’s about presence. Whether she’s walking the ramp or posing for a magazine, Andleeb carries herself with confidence and grace. Her posture, her smile, and her ability to connect with the camera make her stand out in a crowd.
Pageantry Milestones
Andleeb’s first major recognition came when she was selected as a Campus Princess 2016 finalist. This pageant is known for discovering fresh talent from colleges across India. Her selection showed that she had the potential to make it big in the fashion world. Her next big step was the Femina Miss India 2016 South Zone.
This was a regional segment of the national pageant, and making it to the finals was a huge achievement. She stood out for her poise, her answers during interviews, and her overall presence. In 2018, Andleeb returned to the pageant scene and was selected as a Femina Miss India finalist once again. Andleeb also competed in the Max Elite Model Look Hunt 2016 in Hyderabad.
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Rise to Prominence
Zaidi’s modeling career gained major attention when she was featured on the cover of Wow magazine’s September 2019 edition. The cover shoot showcased her elegance and confidence, and it marked a turning point in her public image. The magazine highlighted her journey from a college student to a rising star in the fashion world. It also touched on her advocacy for women’s rights and her bold stance against societal judgment.
This feature helped her gain recognition beyond fashion circles. She started receiving invitations to fashion events, interviews, and brand collaborations. Her story resonated with many young women who saw her as a symbol of courage and independence. The media began to describe her as a “model with a voice,” someone who wasn’t afraid to challenge norms.
Miss Universe India Maharashtra
She also became a voice for animal welfare, regularly posting about her pets and her efforts to feed street dogs. Her followers admired her compassion and her commitment to causes beyond fashion. She showed that models could be more than faces—they could be changemakers.
In 2025, Andleeb reached another milestone by being selected as one of the Top 40 finalists for Miss Universe India Maharashtra. This was especially significant because the Miss Universe Organization had recently changed its rules to allow married women to compete. Andleeb’s selection proved that she was still a strong contender, even after marriage. It also showed that the industry was evolving to become more inclusive.
Lifestyle and Interests
Andleeb’s daily routine includes caring for her pets, working on modeling assignments, and spending time with Ali. She also makes time for painting, dancing, and designing. Her lifestyle is a mix of work and relaxation, and she believes in staying grounded.
She often visits cafes, attends fashion events, and explores new places in the city. Her favorite hangout spot during college was Maggi Point, and she still enjoys simple pleasures like street food and long walks. She believes that happiness comes from small moments.
Her fitness routine includes yoga, dance, and healthy eating. She’s not obsessed with perfection—she focuses on feeling good and staying active. Her beauty secrets include natural skincare and staying hydrated. She also believes in mental wellness and takes time to reflect and recharge.
Personal Life & Marriage
Zaidi’s personal life became a topic of public interest when she started dating Ali Merchant, a television actor known for his roles in shows like Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai and Bandini. The couple met at a fashion event in Hyderabad and gradually got to know each other. Their relationship grew over time, and they kept it private until they were ready to share it with the world.
Andleeb and Ali got married on November 2, 2023, in an intimate nikah ceremony held in Lucknow, Andleeb’s hometown. The wedding was attended by close friends and family members. Andleeb wore an ivory-hued garara, while Ali wore a white sherwani. After the wedding, the couple hosted a lavish reception in Mumbai on November 15, 2023.
Modeling Campaigns & Collaborations
Since her debut in 2015, Andleeb has walked the ramp at numerous fashion events across India. She’s been part of shows like the Hi-Life Fashion Exhibition, Sutraa Fashion Showcase, and Kalasha Jewels Fashion Show. Her walk is confident, her expressions are powerful, and her presence is magnetic.
She’s worked with designers who appreciate her ability to carry both traditional and modern outfits. Her versatility allows her to model bridal wear, casual collections, and high-end couture with equal ease. She’s often praised for her ability to bring life to the clothes she wears. Andleeb’s most notable magazine feature was the September 2019 cover of Wow magazine.
Social Media Presence
Andleeb is active on Instagram, where she has over 35,000 followers. Her account is a mix of fashion photos, personal reflections, pet updates, and advocacy posts. She’s posted more than 550 times, sharing her journey with honesty and warmth.
Andleeb is considered a micro-influencer, focusing on fashion and lifestyle. She’s worked with marketing platforms like The Media Ant, offering packages that include Instagram Reels and Stories. Her content is targeted, engaging, and effective.
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