Masala shares some of our favourite desi pageant winners.
1. 21-year-old Manushi Chhillar, most famously recognised as the winner of the Miss World 2017 pageant, has gone on to score numerous sought- after clothing and jewellery endorsements from some of India’s top brands, including Malabar Gold and Diamonds. During an appearance in Sanya, China to crown Miss World 2018, the beauty queen wore an intricate black sequined lehenga with a sweeping train paired with stunning statement earrings by Sabyasachi, a memorable choice that surely turned heads.
2. Before becoming an established Bollywood actress, Sushmita Sen won Miss Universe 1994 in a very unique pageant ensemble – to say the least. As she grew up in a modest household and was unable to afford a designer wardrobe, rumour has it that she opted for a gown made out of curtain fabric stitched by her local tailor. To add to her onstage look was a pair of white gloves made out of repurposed socks and lace. We can’t help but admire this D.I.Y diva!
3. There is nothing more attractive than a well-draped sari, as its elegant shape does wonders for all women, no matter their age or body type. During an appearance in 2013, former Miss World 1999 Yukta Mookhey wore a shimmery ethnic-inspired coat, complete with metallic and orange geometric embroidery. The addition of her coat created a regal yet unexpected silhouette, perfect for cooler evenings.
4. As the winner of both Miss Intercontinental 1997 and Miss Universe 2000, Lara Dutta Bhupathi is one of India’s most recognised pageant queens. At the grand finale of the Yamaha Fascino Miss Diva 2018 pageant held in Mumbai in August, Lara donned a seafoam coloured peplum gown, and accessorised it with an emerald jewellery set by Farah Khan. Not only is this classic silhouette perfect for her age, but this beauty queen’s natural hair and makeup gave her a radiant glow.
