Miss India 2023 winners are out. But, in a world where beauty pageants have often been criticized for their emphasis on physical appearance, the stories of Strela Luwang and Nandini Gupta stand out as beacons of inspiration. Both women have recently made headlines in India for their remarkable journeys to becoming beauty pageant winners, despite facing significant obstacles along the way.
Strela Luwang, who was recently named the second runner-up in the Miss India World 2023 pageant, has been open about her struggles with epilepsy. In an interview with a leading Indian lifestyle publication, she shared how she was diagnosed with the condition at the age of 14 and initially struggled to come to terms with the diagnosis.
However, instead of letting epilepsy hold her back, Luwang decided to use her experiences to inspire others. She has since become an advocate for epilepsy awareness, working with organizations to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around the condition. Her journey to the Miss India pageant is a testament to her determination and resilience, as she overcame numerous challenges to make it to the national stage.
Similarly, Nandini Gupta, who was recently crowned the winner of the Femina Miss India 2023 pageant, has also faced her fair share of obstacles. Born and raised in a small village in Rajasthan, Gupta had to fight against cultural stereotypes and societal expectations to pursue her dreams of becoming a model.
Miss India 2023 Winners: Overcoming Epilepsy & Stereotypes
Despite facing criticism and opposition from those around her, Gupta remained determined to succeed. She worked tirelessly to improve her skills and build her portfolio, eventually catching the attention of the Miss India organizers. Her victory in the pageant is not only a testament to her hard work and talent but also a symbol of hope for young women across India who are fighting to pursue their dreams.
The journeys of Strela Luwang and Nandini Gupta highlight the importance of perseverance, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. In a world where obstacles are abundant, it can be easy to feel discouraged and give up on our dreams. However, these two women serve as reminders that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
Their stories also demonstrate the power of representation and the impact that diverse voices and perspectives can have in shaping our perceptions of beauty and success. As the beauty pageant industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing social norms, it is women like Luwang and Gupta who will lead the way in shaping a more inclusive and empowering future for all.
The star-studded extravaganza celebrated the ethos of beauty in diversity and featured memorable performances by India’s heartthrobs, the ever-so-dashing Kartik Aaryan and the very pretty Ananya Panday.
There was also dazzling performance by the former winners, Sini Shetty, Rubal Shekhawat, Shinata Chauhan, Manasa Varanasi, Manika Sheokand, Manya Singh, Suman Rao and Shivani Jadhav, who took the stage in exquisite and finely crafted lehengas from Mohey. The event was achored by the evening by the popular Maniesh Paul and the very charming Bhumi Pednaker, who ensured the audience was totally immersed during the proceedings of the event.
Delhi’s Shreya Poonja was declared the first runner-up at the Miss India 2023 beauty pageant . The 59th edition of India’s most prestigious pageant pulled off another season’s grand finale in a historic ceremony at the Indoor Stadium, Khuman Lampak, Imphal, Manipur, the beautiful city which played the perfect host to the mesmerizing event.