Beauty pageant powerful platform for advocacy, tourism, & awareness: Rhea Singha
The reigning Miss Universe India arrived in Nagaland to judge Miss Universe Nagaland 2025 scheduled for Tuesday at RCEMPA Jotsoma, some 7 km on the outskirts of state capital Kohima.
'The Miss Universe pageant is about making people aware of who we are and where we come from,' she said, applauding Nagaland's growing support for pageantry during a press conference here.
Sharing heartfelt insights on pageantry, empowerment, and her experience in Nagaland, Singha expressed her admiration for the state.
'It's such an honour to be here in Nagaland. I've heard so many good things about this beautiful state, and I share fond memories with Ruopfuzano Whiso, who represented Nagaland during our time together in the competition,' Sinha said.
Director of Franchise Operations for Miss Universe India, Amjad Khan, said that Nagaland is the 24th state to host the Miss Universe India state pageant since their journey began in March.
'We've simplified participation by bringing the pageant to each state. No longer do aspirants need to travel to metros,' he noted.
In a Q&A with the press, Singha emphasised the power of authenticity in pageants, revealing her personal growth from an introvert to a confident public figure.
'Being real and raw gave me confidence,' she said, encouraging young contestants to embrace their individuality.
She also addressed parents and communities who may still view pageantry with scepticism, stating: 'Pageantry has evolved and it is now a space for social impact, not just appearance. Let your girls pursue what they want.'
On the misconceptions about beauty pageants, Singha remarked, 'It's not just about the crown or outer appearance. Pageantry gives us a platform to speak, to inspire change, and connect with society.'
As her reign nears its end, Singha reflected on her transformative journey and encouraged Tuesday's contestants of Nagaland to carry their crowns with purpose.
'Every queen brings something new to the table. Pageantry builds a community of positive change,' she said.
To aspiring young women from smaller communities like Nagaland, she urged, 'Dream big. Let your dreams become a vision and a goal. The opportunity to dream is the beginning of something greater.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India.com
a day ago
- India.com
Sushmita Sen's Ex-Boyfriend Rohman Shawl Accused Of ‘Living Under Miss Universe's Shadow', His Reaction Wins Internet
New Delhi: Model and actor Rohman Shawl, Sushmita Sen's ex-boyfriend, recently celebrated seven years with her through a heartfelt post. The post caught netizens' attention, with many questioning their current relationship status. In a long post, Rohman expressed gratitude to the former Miss Universe, along with a black-and-white photo of the two. The actor-model wrote while celebrating their seven years, 'Some stories outgrow their titles, but never their meaning.' He added that the duo are 'Not lovers, not strangers, something softer, rarer!!! You were once my safe place & somehow, still are!!!!' View this post on Instagram A post shared by rohman shawl (@rohmanshawl) One user accused Rohman of 'living in Sushmita's shadow.' The comment read: 'Friend-zoned you are! Just get out of it and own yourself! Individually, you can do more than living just as a shadow of Ms Universe!' Rohman's graceful reply to the comment won hearts online, as he emphasized that being associated with someone remarkable doesn't diminish him. He wrote: 'Being associated with someone remarkable doesn't diminish me; it reflects the kind of people I choose to walk beside. And my love, galaxies don't cast shadows—they shine together!! Much love.' His response earned praise from many, who appreciated his composure and maturity. Sushmita Sen and Rohman Shawl's Relationship Rohman and Sushmita were first linked in 2018. In 2021, Sushmita confirmed their breakup with an Instagram post. She shared a picture with Rohman and wrote: 'We began as friends, we remain friends!! The relationship was long over… the love remains!!' However, the two have continued to be spotted at public events and gatherings, often raising eyebrows about their bond. On the work front, Rohman made his acting debut last year with the Tamil film Amaran, where he played the antagonist and received critical acclaim for his performance. Meanwhile, Sushmita Sen was last seen in the show Taali: Bajaungi Nahi, Bajwaungi.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Throwback: When Tanushree Dutta had DEFEATED Gal Gadot at Miss Universe 2004 pageant
Tanushree Dutta marked her debut in Bollywood with 'Aashiq Banaya Apne,' starring Emraan Hashmi and Sonu Sood. The actress made a place in everyone's heart with her first film itself. But did you know she beat Israeli actress Gal Gadot in the Miss Universe pageant? Here's all you need to know. When Tanushree surpassed Gal Gadot in the Miss Universe pageant Before making her Bollywood debut, Tanushree contested for the Miss Universe title in 2004. As per the Indian Express, at that time, even Gal Gadot was a participant, representing Israel. The report stated that Dutta managed to get listed in the top contestants of that year; however, Gal didn't make it to the elimination round. For the unversed, the now-Hollywood star was crowned as Miss Israel at the age of 18. Meanwhile, the Hollywood beauty once opened up that she had no idea about what to do with her newfound fame when she won the title of Miss Israel. The actress shared that was the reason she decided to underplay at the Miss Universe pageant. Gal expressed that she took things lightly at that time. In the social media post, she expressed, "The responsibility of representing Israel on the global platform took a toll on me, and I took it lightly. ' Current work of Tanushree and Gal Gadot Tanushree Dutta has been away from the screens for quite some time. The actress has been in the news after she made allegations against Nana Patekar in 2019. A few days back, she posted a video of herself crying on the camera and asking for help as she was getting harassed in her own house. 'Fed Up of Being Harassed':Actor Tanushree Dutta Posts Emotional Plea; Alleges Harassment at Home On the other hand, Gal Gadot will next feature in 'Fast X: Part 2.' She was last seen as the Evil Queen in Disney's 'Snow White' live-action movie. Starring Rachel Zegler as the titular character, the film was released in March 2025.
News18
3 days ago
- News18
Rohman Shawl Hugs Sushmita Sen, Says 'Not Lovers…' As He Thanks Former Girlfriend
Last Updated: Sushmita Sen and Rohman Shawl, who split in 2021, remain close friends. On their seven years of knowing each other, Rohman shared a heartfelt Instagram note. There was a time when Sushmita Sen and Rohman Shawl would paint social media red with their loved-up photos. Just when fans thought a wedding announcement was to follow, Sushmita and Rohman, in 2021, posted that they had parted ways. However, what fans admire most is how beautifully they have maintained their seven-year-long friendship. On July 28, Rohman wrote a beautiful note for the former Miss Universe, expressing his gratitude for their relationship, which he claims is beyond a 'title" or a tag. Rohman Shawl posted a beautiful black and white photo with Sushmita Sen, hugging her tightly. He wrote, '7 years today… Some stories outgrow their titles, but never their meaning !! I taught you chess, you now beat me without mercy. You taught me to swim, dragged a water phobic soul into the deep end(emotionally and literally) And how can i not thank you for giving me the best haircuts." He further penned, elaborating on the meaning that their relationship holds: 'We swapped roles, fears, and strengths, and somewhere between checkmates and deep ends, we found a bond that outlived labels. Not lovers, not strangers, something softer, rarer !!! You were once my safe place & somehow, still are!!!! Grateful for the love we had & the quiet friendship that stayed @sushmitasen47." The model-actor used a few hastags to support his note, such as 'HapppyAnniversary", 'sevenyears", 'love", 'friendship", 'respect". View this post on Instagram A post shared by rohman shawl (@rohmanshawl) Fans lauded Rohman's honesty in his note for Sushmita Sen. He wrote, 'What an outstanding caption", 'Beautifully expressed", 'The best thing I read today! God bless", 'Very well written!", 'Love in it's purest form, beyond comprehension", 'Eternal love story….a strong lady and a charming man…she is ..awesome." Rohman and Sushmita may have parted ways romantically in 2021, but their friendship continues to shine through. At the time of their breakup, Sushmita gracefully addressed it on Instagram, writing, 'We began as friends, we remain friends. The relationship was long over…the love remains!" Soon after, businessman Lalit Modi announced that he is dating Sushmita. However, their relationship ended too. In an earlier interview with Hindustan Times, the actress opened up about how she navigates relationships with integrity and warmth. 'I'm a 100% person. When I'm in love, I'm all in. So when we leave, we must do that 100% too. The truth is incredible—it allows people to remain friends. The world needs that love. There's enough chaos already." Just last week, Rohman reflected on his admiration for Sushmita, admitting he still can't afford the kind of diamond she adores. 'The kind of diamond she likes, I can't afford it yet. Her favourite is 22 carats. I'll take time to earn that, but God willing, someday I will," he shared with honesty and affection. Despite their breakup, Rohman has remained a constant in Sushmita's life and supports her at public appearances and even standing by her side during her health scare in 2023. First Published: July 28, 2025, 18:46 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
