HYBE INDIA has expanded its search for India’s next generation of pop talent, with film star Rashmika Mandanna joining the company’s latest audition campaign. The actor is supporting the HYBE INDIA Audition: Final Call, the second phase of a nationwide search for female performers who could become part of a new global girl group.
The latest audition phase began on September 2, following an initial round that attracted applications from across India as well as the Indian diaspora in 116 countries. HYBE INDIA is now widening the search to eight additional Indian cities as it looks for performers with the potential to build international careers.
Rashmika Mandanna Encourages Young Performers
As part of the campaign, Rashmika Mandanna appears in a special video in which she reflects on her own career and the importance of taking opportunities when they arise.
“Every journey begins with an opportunity and the courage to take that first step,” Mandanna said. “When I look back at my own journey, I know how much it takes to keep believing in yourself, working hard and saying yes to possibilities.”
The actor described the audition as a “first-of-its-kind opportunity in India” and encouraged aspiring female performers to take a chance on their ambitions.
“I hope every girl who has a dream gives herself the chance to take that first step,” she added.
Mandanna’s involvement gives the campaign an additional connection to India’s mainstream entertainment industry, while the audition itself is focused on discovering talent across multiple performance disciplines.
HYBE India Searches for Female Talent
The HYBE INDIA Audition: Final Call is part of the company’s effort to discover and develop artists who could eventually connect with audiences around the world.
Female applicants born between 2005 and 2011 are eligible to audition in five categories:
- Vocals
- Rap
- Dance
- Acting
- Modelling
The broad category structure allows applicants with different performance backgrounds to put forward their strengths as HYBE INDIA searches for potential members of a new global girl group.
CEO Damien Woochang Lee Highlights India’s Talent
HYBE INDIA CEO Damien Woochang Lee said the response to the first phase demonstrated the level of talent and ambition among Indian applicants.
“The response to the first phase highlighted the depth of talent and ambition across India,” Lee said.
He added that the expanded search is intended to identify artists who can represent India internationally.
“Our aim is to discover, nurture and develop talent with the potential to represent India on a global stage, and we look forward to seeing the voices, talent and stories that emerge from this next phase,” he said.
Applications Open Until October 31
Aspiring performers who meet the eligibility requirements can apply online for the HYBE INDIA Audition: Final Call until October 31.
The campaign’s international reach has already been significant. The first phase reportedly received applications from India and members of the Indian diaspora across 116 countries, while the second phase is expanding the physical search to eight more cities in India.
The initiative reflects the growing effort to identify Indian artists who can participate in entertainment projects designed for audiences beyond the domestic market.
A New Opportunity for India’s Aspiring Girl-Group Artists
With Rashmika Mandanna lending her voice to the campaign, HYBE INDIA is positioning the latest audition as an opportunity for young women to take their first step toward a professional career in entertainment.
The final outcome of the audition process remains to be seen, but the search offers aspiring singers, rappers, dancers, actors and models a chance to put their talent forward.
