Debonair Centrespread Page

The remains one of the most culturally significant artifacts of post-independence Indian media. Often referred to as "India’s answer to Playboy," Debonair magazine (founded in 1973) carved out a unique space in a conservative society by blending high-brow literary content with bold, topless photography. The Genesis of the Indian Centrespread

Launched by entrepreneur Susheel Somani in April 1974, the magazine was designed to appeal to the "modern Indian gentleman". While its pages featured deep-dive interviews and poetry, the —the glossy, fold-out middle section—was the primary driver of its underground popularity. Key figures who shaped the magazine's identity include: debonair centrespread

: A legendary editor who brought a "class act" sensibility to the magazine, ensuring that the provocative visuals were balanced by sophisticated journalism. The remains one of the most culturally significant

While the centrespreads featured semi-nude models, the of Debonair served as a rite of passage for many of India’s most famous actresses before they achieved mainstream stardom. Notable names who appeared on the cover include: Debonair Magazine Old Issues - sciphilconf.berkeley.edu While its pages featured deep-dive interviews and poetry,