I’m super excited because the Miss World pageant is happening in India. I’m not only representing India on the world stage, but also the fact that Miss World is coming to India. We get to be the hosts; I get to be the host delegate; it is an honour. I will try to live up to the Indian standard of hospitality, Atithi Devo Bhava, which means ‘Guest is God’. It is a surreal feeling. I hope all the girls, a few of whom are coming to India for the first time, have a ball of a time here and enjoy India in its true essence.Could you take us through the tough times you’ve been through while convincing your parents?
I believe there was some initial hesitation and concern from my parents regarding the path I chose. However, their worries stemmed from a place of love for me to succeed and have a fulfilling life. Like any parent, they wanted the best for their child. With the sudden shift in career, I feel they were looking for logic, but after a good conversation, they understood and trusted my decision, and since then, they have been my biggest support.
Hailing from Mumbai, you haven’t forgotten your Mangalorean roots…
I was born and brought up in Mumbai, but I am a Mangalore girl because of my upbringing. My parents grew up in the small towns of Mangalore, and they bring the culture with them to our family. Growing up, we were imbued with traditional values, and every summer vacation, we used to visit Mangalore to meet our grandmother and spend some time with cousins. Also, my mom was particular about the fact that we learn and speak in our mother tongue, so we talk only in Tulu at home. Understanding what our culture is, our festivals are, our deities are, and what our duties are towards deities has been something that has been taught by my parents ever since we were children, and that’s how we connect to my Mangalorean roots.
You were raised with a strong sense of responsibility by your grandparents, who dedicated their lives to serving the public. Tell us about it, please.
My maternal grandparents come from a royal background, while my paternal grandparents were a part of the freedom fighters’ lineage. They have instilled in me the values of selfless service and a sense of duty towards our country. Their influence has been resounding, shaping the path that led me to where I am today. I believe I am fulfilling the aspirations of my ancestors, from representing India to understanding the true essence of freedom. I strive to embody the core values that define India globally, all of which I attribute to the teachings passed down through generations in my family.
Tell us about your ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ project for Miss World.
‘Beauty with a Purpose’ is an initiative by the Miss World organisation that focusses on important social issues chosen by delegates from various countries. It brings together delegates to discuss these issues and find solutions. My project, ‘Aashayein,’ is a part of this initiative. Reflecting on our school days, we often realize that there was more emphasis on finishing the syllabus than developing practical skills like public speaking and personality development, which are crucial in the professional world. Research shows that many children in government schools struggle with this transition into the workforce. To bridge this gap, my project focuses on enhancing soft skills like public speaking and personality development, which are essential for employment. I have partnered with organizations like ‘Teach India’, ‘Saarthi’, ‘SPID Society’, and ‘Pahal’, to work towards this goal. So far, we have successfully conducted 13 batches with 30 students each, and I aim to expand these efforts in the future. Working on this project has been a fulfilling experience, and I am committed to continuing our growth and impact under the umbrella of ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ and Miss World.
You’re trained in Bharatanatyam and also practice other dance forms. How has dance shaped your personality?
Dance is like my happy place. It helps me express myself and deal with my feelings, challenges, and opportunities. I’ve been learning Bharatanatyam since I was four. Dance makes me feel relieved. It keeps me calm and helps me forget my worries. Even though competitions can be stressful, dancing always makes me feel better.
How do you keep your mental health in check?
I believe that focussing on your breath and maintaining self-confidence can help you overcome obstacles. When times get tough, remember to breathe deeply and trust yourself. Regular meditation can also contribute to your overall well-being by keeping you centered. It’s important to know your goals and have a passion for life to stay motivated. For me, dance is a source of comfort that helps me relax. Whenever I feel troubled, I make sure to express my feelings to someone who can help me stay calm.
When you say beautiful, do you think our society has a somewhat flawed definition of beauty?
I feel that living in the real world, we’ve forgotten what reality is, and I’ve seen the pressure build up on youth today to look a certain way, to be in a certain shape and frame. There are some unrealistic beauty standards set up in the generation of filters! One swipe changes your look, and that is how you would want to look in real life, which is impossible. Beauty is a highly subjective topic. For me, true beauty lies in a person’s personality. I value someone who shares wisdom, brings joy, and keeps conversations lively over mere facial features. The pressure to meet unrealistic standards in today’s world can be challenging. It’s important to remember that we’re living in the real world, not an idealized one.
Are you keen on getting into the entertainment industry as well?
I believe in seizing every opportunity that helps me grow as a brand. Having grown up immersed in cinema and Bollywood, I feel it has played a vital role in shaping my personality. If given the chance, I would love to be more than just a spectator in the world of cinema, as it would be a tremendous opportunity for personal and professional growth.
