Interview with Gail D'Silva (Miss Goa 2013)

All of 19, Gail Nicole Da Silva is brimming with confidence after winning the Femina Miss India Goa 2013 title. She dreams to go on a vacation with the King of Romance- Shah Rukh Khan, loves partying with friends and family and doesn't really care about rumours. She spoke to us on why she feels she deserves to win the Miss India crown and the kind of preparation she is undergoing for the finale day.

Excerpts...

You have sailed through the state pageant competition by winning the Miss Goa 2013 title and successfully made your way into the main pageant as a finalist. What is your current state of mind?

This is an achievment that has made me happy and I feel blessed to represent my colourful festive state. But the race is still on and I am passionate to win the crown, so better watch out for me!

Tell us a bit about your journey as a model to becoming a beauty queen. What was the inspiration behind seeing yourself as a Miss India?

I've been harbouring the dream of becoming a beauty queen since I was 10 years old. I've always aspired to be a fashion and commercial model. My successful presentations during college fashion shows equipped me with the experience I needed to model for noted Goan designers like Verma D'mello, iconic photographers like Prasad Pankar, and renowned makeup artists in the likes of Carol Fernandes. Every opportunity has boosted my confidence and while I still am inspired by former Miss Indias, I'm readily excited to be the next one.

Please elaborate on the kind of training you are going through for the big day?

I'm maintaining a nutritious diet, a disciplined exercise routine and reading and composing my thoughts on current affairs. I'm also religiously following the tips given by Marc Robinson and pageant analysts like Melvyn Norona.

About your fitness routine and health regime

I believe in a healthy and balanced diet. So, I eat a little of everything in the right proportions and thus, don't miss out on any of the fun foods. I am blessed with a beautiful body and I do not fail to go for a 2-hour morning exercise every day as part of my fitness routine.

What does it mean to be a Miss India and where do you see yourself after winning the prestigious title?

It is like the Olympics of beauty, style and personality. The title is an opportunity to represent our nation's diverse culture and be the voice of women of our country. Besides, I want to bring back the international crown to our motherland and use the platform to engage in the various causes I believe in.

What will be your winning strategy? What sets you apart from the other girls?

My winning strategy would be to stay calm, focused and confident all through the competition. My level of patience and optimistic outlook set me apart from the fellow contestants.

Any subtitle contest(s)/title(s) in the pageant that you are confident of winning?

I could and would love to win them all but 'Miss Beautiful Lips', 'Catwalk', 'Miss Photogenic', and 'Glamorous Diva' are some of the few subtitles I am confident about.