Sagarika Chettri grew up in Mumbai but her summer vacations were compulsorily spent in Darjeeling. After having worked as a flight attendant for 6 long years, she was sure about her love for flying until Miss India happened. Now, with the crown of Ponds Femina Miss India Kolkata 2013 on her head, she is prepared to achieve greater heights.

In an exclusive interview, she tells us about her journey from flying to modelling, her life in Darjeeling, and her preparations for the approaching pageant, Ponds Femina Miss India 2013.

You've recently won yourself the title of Ponds Femina Miss India Kolkata 2013. How do you feel and how has been the experience so far?

Wow! I feel like a princess and on top of the world! It's definitely a great feeling and I feel proud, honoured and very thrilled to be the title holder and being addressed as Ponds Femina Miss India Kolkata 2013, representing the east zone. The entire journey was a great learning experience. Since I am not from the modelling world, I learned so much about the walk, talk, posture, poise and grooming. I see a great change in myself and all thanks to Alecia Raut, our grooming team and Mr Marc Robinson for training us and making our journey so encouraging. This is just the beginning and I am passionate to win the crown!

You belong to Darjeeling, a place world famous for its teas. Tell us a little about your growing up years in Darjeeling?

Well my dad was a naval officer hence I grew up in Mumbai but we would visit Darjeeling during summer vacations. As a kid, my favourite game would be plucking tea leaves and going for a joy ride in the toy train that took us through the hills. We would go on treks and that is how I developed interest in adventure sports. We used to bring back a whole suitcase filled with Darjeeling tea and stock it in Mumbai because I loved the tea from our garden. I remember our days would remain incomplete without hogging on momos and thukpa. I have beautiful memories of Darjeeling.

You were working as a flight attendant before Miss India happened. What inspired you to change your field of work?
Sometimes, inspirational words are enough to start believing in you and that is exactly what happened to me. Femina Miss India was a great opportunity that came my way and I believe making a move at the right time is advisable. I always had a strong liking for modelling and when I got the golden opportunity to be a part of the most prestigious platform, Femina Miss India, I couldn't stop myself from showcasing my talent. After flying for almost 6 years, I thought I was in love with flying but looks like I found my new love! Besides, the two beautiful ladies in my life - my mother and my sister have a great role in inspiring me and making me believe that I am born to do this.

The next big step is Miss India 2013 to be held in Mumbai. How are you preparing for it?
Yes, the journey has begun and is very close. I am focussing on all the aspects needed to be a perfect Miss India. From maintaining a healthy diet to following an intense fitness regime, reading, staying updated with current affairs, working on styling, practising my walk, and following the tips and guidance given by Ritika Ramtri, the pageant coach.

Every state winner is different and will have a unique approach. What would be your strategy to crack the pageant? How confident are you of winning?
Being my self and giving my best shot throughout the journey will be my strategy to crack the pageant and I am very confident of winning it!

Along with the main title, you've also won Max Femina Miss Fashion Icon, PCJ Femina Miss Timeless Beauty and Pond's Femina Miss Glowing Skin. What all sub-titles are you aiming to win in the main pageant?
Given a chance, I would love to aim on all the subtitles but I don't want to restrict myself by aiming on any title in particular. I want to give my best shot and let's see what all subtitles I take home!

In the world of Miss Indias, who is your biggest inspiration and why?
Every Miss India has inspired me in their own way with their talent and beauty. But I have to admit Aishwarya Rai has been my all time favourite. Her beauty is breathtaking and the way she composes herself sets her apart from everyone else. The way she has represented India globally, I aspire to do the same. She is a great source of inspiration to me!

With reference to the recent Delhi gang rape case, how do you think one can bring about changes in the society? What is your take on the issue?
It saddens me immensely that such cruelty exists in our society even today and that we raise our voices only after innocent lives have been taken. These crimes take place because these men were never taught to respect women. One can bring a change in the society only through education. If the concept of right and wrong, equality of sexes, respect, kindness and forgiveness are instilled in children from the very beginning, only then society will gradually begin to change. But we cannot wait for an entire generation waiting to see a change; hence strict judicial laws should also be enforced to bring immediate fear in the minds of people. I really hope and pray that our country will be a better and a safer place for women to live in.

Do you really think that women are the weaker sex as popular belief would have it?
After thousands of years of male dominance, we now stand at the beginning of the feminine era when women will rise to their appropriate prominence and the entire world will recognise the harmony between man and woman.

Women were never weak and will never be. Women have proved themselves in every field and have made a mark for themselves in the society. Men are physically stronger and externally oriented by nature. In contrast, women usually embody the ideal of inner dignity. Women by nature are subtle and not weak while men are aggressive, not brutish. For man and woman to be complete they must possess both the energies in my opinion I feel men and women should celebrate their differences rather than proving who's superior.

Do you think India is ready to accept things like homosexuality, lesbianism, unwed/single parenthood and live-in relationships outside wedlock?
In my opinion, India should broaden their horizon in terms of thinking and accept sensitive topics like homosexuality and lesbianism. Every individual has the right to choose and live their life the way they want and we are nobody to dictate them. Acceptance in big cities has taken place but the real success will be when even the smaller cities start accepting their existence. Also, I don't understand how single parenting would affect in the growth of a child. As far as love and good values are inculcated in the child, single parenting is absolutely fine.

With the growing number of divorce cases and failed relationships, if live-in relationships help in knowing the person better and be sure he or she is the one you want to spend your whole life with then I guess live in relationships are okay and India has to an extent accepted it all.

Any final thoughts...
A person is like a treasure box and his/her jewel of talent is hidden in the treasure box of life and one has to find the right combination to open it. I am here to discover my talents, abilities and have the time of my life. I am all geared up to win the coveted title and make my country proud!!

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.

Shobhita Dhulipalia

Her dream is to fly and why not, she is after all the proud winner of Miss India Bangalore 2013! Meet Sobhita Dhulipala, a 20-year-old student from Visakhapatnam who has bagged a spot in the Top 20 for the upcoming Ponds Femina Miss India 2013 by winning the title of PFMI Miss India Bangalore 2013. Besides clinching state pageant, she has also won herself three other subtitles - Yamaha Ray Femina Miss Adventurous, Max Femina Miss Fashion Icon, and TRESemme Femina Miss Stylish Hair.

In an exclusive interview, Sobhita talks about her preparation for the dream title.

You've recently won yourself the title of Ponds Femina Miss India Bangalore 2013. How do you feel and how has been the experience so far?

The vibrancy of the moment left me with goose bumps! Femina Miss India is THE dream of almost all girls born in our country. I was thrilled, encouraged and ignited to be a part of something that grand. All the contestants were ravishing and fascinating in their own ways. I learned the importance of patience, team work and most importantly, excellence through healthy competition. Everybody put in their best and that pushed me to realize my maximum potential. How does it feel to wear the precious tiara and smile like sunshine? Absolute euphoria!

The next big step is Miss India 2013 to be held in Mumbai. How are you preparing for it?

There are various aspects that are groomed and tested. Being the closet geek I am, being updated, reading, learning about people, cultures, news etc is a great pleasure. Regarding the physical aspect, I'm someone who embraces her body type without whining about wanting to be skinny or fairer or taller and so on. I see myself as a perfect embodiment of the Indian woman. I'm curvaceous and I love it! However, I'm working on enhancing my strengths and improving my weaknesses. A healthy diet, some exercise and lots of positivity. All of it is working wonders!

Every state winner is different and will have a unique approach. What would be your strategy to crack the pageant? How confident are you of winning?

Every girl out there is a stunning mix of beauty and brains but what sets me apart from them is my curiosity to learn out of every experience. I let my passion and optimism to be my driving force and hope to deliver my best. However, the journey is what I'm eagerly looking forward to because irrespective of who the winner is, I know I will be taking back the treasures of memories that I will always cherish. I'm alluring, adventurous, and passionate and I celebrate every moment.

What all sub-titles are you aiming to win?

I'm not eyeing any one specific subtitle. Why limit myself to just what I'm good at? I love to surprise myself! Let's see what all I grab away.

In the world of Miss Indias, who is your biggest inspiration and why?

All our Miss Indias were compassionate and beautiful women. I admire Zeenat Aman and Madhu Sapre in the way they conduct themselves. They are strong, sassy, bold and beautiful. They've been iconic in breaking away from stereotypes and such women fascinate me. I also find Aishwarya Rai extremely beautiful. Among the recent Miss Indias, I've had the chance to meet Rochelle Rao in PFMI Bangalore and found her to be very charming and an absolute stunner!

What are the prominent modelling assignments you've featured in so far?

I have done a couple of local pageants before. Being relatively new to this world of glitz and glamour, I'm fresh, charged up and focused to mark my spot. Fingers crossed!

Any plans to take on Bollywood?

Right now I'm concentrating on winning Miss India and then the global title. My aim is to bring back the glory for our much deserving beauty, wit and intelligence. Only time can tell what the future holds for me.

With reference to the recent Delhi gang rape case, how do you think one can bring about changes in the society? What is your take on the issue?

I've been deeply disturbed by this incident. I believe that women are one of the most beautiful creations and it stings me to see their merciless exploitation in a country where they are celebrated. I thoroughly urge parents to inculcate feelings of respect and empathy in their children. Strict moral policing is needed right from childhood. This is not the time to feel victimized and indulge in self pity, but to develop a strong sense of our self. I'm happy with the strengthening of Section 100 of IPC (self defense act) where killing or harming the attacker in crisis is free of fault. All women should be made aware of such laws and not falter in exercising them. This may instil a sense of security and confidence in women and keep the crime rate low. I hope more such laws will be created and implemented effectively. I pray for and work towards a safer and respectful future for womankind.

Do you really think that women are the weaker sex as popular belief would have it?

Marilyn Monroe had once said, women who seek to be equal with men, lack ambition and I agree with it. A mother, a sister, a wife, a friend - there are so many forms and such divinity in our existence. We are a celebration of life and spirit. Since the beginning of time, women had greater emotional quotient while men were the strong, bread winners. The responsibilities and qualities are equally shared between the two genders, as I see it. This basis of partnership has turned into dominance by men due to the submission of women over time. And hence, such a wrong notion has become popular. I find it absolutely baseless and I'm sure deep down, men do know the truth. Love us, hate us, you still need us ;)

Do you think India is ready to accept things like homosexuality, lesbianism, unwed/single parenthood and live-in relationships outside wedlock?

I am extremely hurt when I see homosexuals being discriminated or humiliated. I believe that acceptance is optional but understanding, essential. India needs to grow up and acknowledge the fact that there is nothing wrong with them. Their choices are merely different from the majority. I totally support gay couples and hope to advocate their cause successfully. Also, I don't see how parenting is ruptured if there is no marriage to hold the couple together. As long as there is love, responsibility, maturity and the required concern, I am sure anyone could make a wonderful parent.

I'm not too sure if we understand live-in relationships. If the couple is practical and mature enough to deal with the pros and cons and not sink into a flood of regret later, then that's alright. I really hope it's not used to appear cool because that is very superficial and might fail.

Any final thoughts...
Life is like an hourglass glued to the table. Might as well enjoy it while it lasts! I'm going to be having the time of my life at Femina Miss India. The adrenaline rush is leaving a perpetual smile on my face. Bring it on!

Young, vivacious and optimistic, 20-year-old Navneet Kaur Dhillon was just a media student by profession until she proved her real mettle by winning the Miss India Chandigarh 2013. One of the few fresh faces that can give her co-contestants a tough run for competition, she has secured her place among the top 20 finalists of the Ponds Femina Miss India 2013.

In an exclusive interview, Navneet talks about her preparation for the upcoming pageant.

Excerpts below...

You've recently won yourself the title of Ponds Femina Miss India Chandigarh 2013. How do you feel and how has been the experience so far?

I feel on top of the world! The experience has been very good, encouraging and joyful. It was like an adventure and all thanks to the trainers and grooming experts of Femina Miss India. I underwent a complete transformation from the day I enrolled for the pageant and the day I won. What I like most is that people have started addressing me as Miss Chandigarh instead of Navneet. It's thrilling and gives me goose bumps every time I hear myself being addressed as Miss Chandigarh.

The next big step is Miss India 2013 to be held in Mumbai. How are you preparing for it?

To win any pageant, one needs to prepare in segments rather than doing everything altogether. So, the first thing that I did after winning was watch the past years' Miss India & Miss World shows. I wanted to know how the pageants work because to win, you have to be very sure about the format of the pageant.

Right now, I am undergoing intense workout sessions at the gym. I am following a proper diet and being guided by experts to further tone my body. I am also practicing catwalk basics taught by our ramp walk trainer, Alicia Raut. And yes, a bit of meditation that helps me focus. Once I get a little stable with these, I will start preparing for the wardrobe and styling. I am also trying to improve my speaking skills by reading and watching videos available on Internet.

Every state winner is different and will have a unique approach. What would be your strategy to crack the pageant? How confident are you of winning?

Like I said, I believe in step by step preparation. I am confident of winning as I have what it takes to be a Miss India. As far as strategy is concerned, I am going to be myself and not copy others. I plan to enhance my strengths and work hard to improve my weaknesses.

What all sub-titles are you aiming to win?

Since I won Femina Miss Glowing Skin title at Chandigarh pageant, it's natural that I want to win it again. Other than that, people like my hair, so Miss Beautiful Hair is second on the list. I also want to win Miss Photogenic, Miss Beauty with a Purpose and Miss Congeniality.

In the world of Miss Indias, who is your biggest inspiration and why?

It has to be Vanya! When I saw Miss World 2012, I found her to be stunning and spectacular in the finale. For a moment, I felt as if I am competing as I could relate to the rush that Vanya must have felt. Another Miss India who I find very mesmerizing is the very lovely Rochelle Maria Rao. She is an inspiration for many. I got a chance to meet both these ladies in person at Femina Miss India Chandigarh. I also wanted to meet Prachi but couldn't although I am sure she is equally stunning.

In an earlier interview, you talked about opening your own production house. Tell us more about it.

The production house dream will come true, hopefully. I am pursuing B. Tech. in Television, Film production and Media Technology and learning a lot about what goes on behind the camera. I have done a few projects where I assisted my seniors in production and acted in a few films with social causes that are yet to be released. In fact, one of the films is called 'Choice' and can be viewed on YouTube.

What are the prominent modelling assignments you've featured in so far?

I have done a few shows and acted in a number of short films that were a part of my course.

Any plans to take on Bollywood?

As I mentioned earlier, I am studying to make films. Bollywood is the place - it could be acting and directing. My aim is to act in films directed by me.

With reference to the recent Delhi gang rape case, how do you think one can bring about changes in the society? What is your take on the issue?

It's very sad that this is happening and that too every day in all the states of our country. So why blame Delhi alone? The most important step should be to bring about a change in moral education from beginning, i.e. childhood. The child should be taught the equality of gender. Speedy punishment may work as a deterrent.

Do you really think that women are the weaker sex as popular belief would have it?

A land where Durga and Kali are worshipped, where Jhansi ki Rani fought against men, and several other incidents where women have come out stronger than men, calling women weak is a sin! Today women are rubbing shoulders with men in all fields including armed forces and proving to be equally competent, if not better. This popular belief of weaker sex has started changing for the betterment of the society. People should watch the movie called 'True Grit' to see how determined women can be.

Do you think India is ready to accept things like homosexuality, lesbianism, unwed/single parenthood and live-in relationships outside wedlock?

Homosexuality - no, but we just need to keep our minds open about these things because denying it doesn't mean it isn't there. One should learn about it and try to understand before judging. As far as unwed or single parenting is concerned, I feel people make their own choices in life, whether we like it or not. While I advocate the presence of both parents, single parenting is very much present in the society and the best thing we could do is not make this hard on the child because he didn't want to be in that situation. Live-in relationships are growing in number. With divorce rates on the rise, giving living-ins a trial run before involving family or kids may be a good idea. However, in a situation where it's done to be looked upon as modern or emulate the western culture, I definitely do not support that.

Any final thoughts...

I want to put all the effort to prepare myself for Ponds Femina Miss India World Crown. If I win, I'll look forward to representing India internationally and hopefully, make my country proud by winning the coveted crown.

Newly crowned Miss Universe Olivia Culpo joined “Extra’s” Maria Menounos in NYC’s Times Square as a special guest co-host, and the two talked about Culpo’s rising fame and rumored romance with Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte. Culpo said, “Rumors are rumors. At the end of the day, we're just friends and I'm happy with that.”

If other guys are interested, however, Miss Universe smiled, “Whatever happens, happens. Just going to go with the flow.”

Olivia said her day-to-day life has not changed much since becoming Miss Universe.

“Since winning Miss Universe, I have a different title. I'm not Miss USA. I'm still the same person.” She added that she’s “excited to have a bigger platform” in raising awareness of HIV and AIDS. Praising her “boss” Donald Trump for being “amazing,” the Boston University student pondered where her career path might take her. “It's crazy to think one year ago I was carrying books to my college library! We'll see what happens.”

7 other Things You Might Not Know About "Olivia Culpo" 

 

Saniah Baig, Miss Pune 2013

"Every end is a new beginning", is a saying that Miss India Pune 2013 winner Saniah Baig swears by. She may have won the state pageant in the first leg of the competition but the victory has not made her complacent in any way. With her mother as the biggest strength, Saniah feels she can conquer all challenges. In an exclusive interview with us Saniah talks about her journey so far, why she thinks children in India are neglected and how planning 'winning' strategies is not her cup of tea.



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

The feeling is overwhelming, it was a childhood dream and with the win at the state pageant I'm slowly inching towards the final goal, i.e. the Ponds Femina Miss India 2013. I'm all charged up and working on all aspects to turn my dream into a reality.

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?

My journey has just begun and I am taking baby steps as of now, but the victory at Miss Pune pageant has instilled a lot of faith and confidence within me. My inspiration is my mother, for she has given me the strength to step out and take a shot at finding and discovering myself. She is truly my pillar and guiding light; I want to win the title, but I want her to wear my crown, that's how much she inspires me.

Please elaborate on the kind of training you are going through for the big day
As I said, I am leaving no stone unturned towards making a mark at the pageant. I am grooming myself thoroughly; be it my walk, talk, fitness or speech. Miss India is like the CAT exam, one has to be fully prepared to crack it.

About your fitness routine and health regime
I have always taken good care of my body, skin and hair. From the pageant point of view, I am working out religiously and following a good diet plan to keep my body in shape and mind at peace.

You'd said in one of your earlier interviews that you would want to open an orphanage upon winning the Miss India contest. Any specific reason attached to the endeavour?
If in wrong hands or without supervision, I think children are somehow always neglected or abused. Femina Miss India is a national platform and gives the contestant a kind of recognition and vision towards such causes. This platform gives me an opportunity to do my bit for the little children who, I feel, deserve all the happiness in this world.

What does it mean to be a Miss India and where do you see yourself after winning the prestigious title?
Miss India is a life changing moment for every girl. It transforms her into a national personality and opens up a plethora of opportunities. However, nothing is a guarantee or confirmation; one has to work hard to excel in any field, be it glamour or Bollywood. To be a Miss India for me is a moment to feel proud of myself, my family's support and everyone who has been a part of my journey. If at all I am fortunate to win this title, I would be sure that I am in right hands. Miss India not only gives you wings but also leads you to the right direction to fly high.

What will be your winning strategy? What sets you apart from other girls?
I have no strategies, because I am not playing it like a game. For me, I am competing with myself. If I aim to better myself each day, I know I will emerge a confident person at the finale event. What sets me apart from the other contestants is my personality which is made up of several secret ingredients. I will not reveal much as some things are best left unsaid and for others to find out.

Any subtitle contest(s)/title(s) in the pageant that you are confident of winning?
I won Miss Beautiful Hair at Miss Pune 2013, so that is one; rest I don't know but I am working hard for every subtitle contest.

Projects/advertisements you are currently endorsing
I am waiting for the journey to begin...

Neha Hinge

She was awarded the Bollywood Diva title at the Miss India pageant 2010, apart from being adjudged the Pantaloons Femina Miss Fresh Face, Miss Professional and Online winner. Neha Hinge, Miss India International 2010 is a spirited woman with immense confidence, positive energy and the ability to take life as it comes.

In an exclusive chat with us, Neha tells us why she has taken things slow after her Bollywood debut in Joe Rajan's Luv U Soniyo, what it means to be desirable and how travelling makes her the happiest.



From a software engineer to a model and a Miss India, how has the transition been?
To tell you the truth, my family is full of IIT geniuses, doctors and engineers. As if almost like a tradition, my career too had to follow the same route into the corporate world. I did my BE in Electronics and became a software engineer thereafter. My childhood dreams were however different from what became of me as an adult. As a 5-year-old, seeing Aishwarya Rai winning the Miss World title was like living a dream. Miss India for me meant nothing more than blowing kisses, doing lot of charity and landing up a movie offer. I realised that Miss India is a responsibility and not about blowing kisses in the wind when I myself adorned the crown in 2010. It was during my growing up years that I joined grooming classes. Instructors and trainers would often tell me I had the 'Miss India face' but I was stiff and raw, thanks to my formal bearing as an engineer. Slowly, muscles loosened up, I started looking into the camera as opposed to keeping my eyes closed with fear before, and then, after years of training, I walked my way through to the Miss India stage and won too!

Then how did you convince your parents for a career in modelling?
My parents were calm, supportive and motivating. In fact, it was my mother who decided on a professional training for me once I made my mind to be a model. Whenever I fumbled and my nerves got the better of me, my parents lifted me up from all dilemmas and apprehensions. I remember how unsure I was about my first film because Bollywood had never been my plan. My father had full faith in me and it is because of him that I discovered I can be an actor too.

An oft-repeated question though, how has life changed after Miss India?
Miss India has been a watershed moment in my life. From being a girl with a tight ponytail, sitting in front of the computer and figuring out things in keyboard clicks, I was suddenly this woman people began looking up to. Now, when I pose for the cameras, I feel the one thing that has not changed in all these years is the sound of the 'click'. It was the computer then, it's the camera now. I come from a small town called Dewas near Indore, a place you can hardly locate on the map. After Miss India, it is indeed a proud realisation that my home is no more non-existent to people.

You were among the Top 50 Most Desirable Women of 2010 according to the Times of India Poll. What does it mean to be desirable?
Being desirable does not mean just beautiful. Desirable is someone who is liked, adored and loved by people from all age groups, age, class and such like. You can be desirable only when you make people happy irrespective of their backgrounds and other concerns.

We last saw you in Luv U Soniyo. What next?
I do not rush into things and therefore I am giving myself time to find the right film. I am going through a couple of scripts at the moment. After Luv U Soniyo, I do not want to settle for anything below my standard. I have endorsed brands like Nokia, Sunsilk, Pantaloons and Street Wear among others.

A life-changing experience you would like to share...
That has to be Miss India. I can't help but recall the moment when I was given the keys of a brand new car as the winner's gift after being declared Miss India International 2010. I'd always wanted to buy a fancy car but could not and to see it coming my way as a present felt special. I was thrilled beyond words.

Movie(s) in the recent times you wish you could be a part of...
I wish I could play Priyanka Chopra's character in Barfi. Much as I loved the film, I was simply bowled over by the ex-Miss World's performance.

Your favourite directors and actors
I have grown up watching Yash Raj Production films. I wanted to be signed for at least one movie under that prestigious banner, but after the stalwart director Yash Chopra's demise, I feel the wish will remain a dream. Farhan Akhtar (as an actor too), Imtiaz Ali, Anurag Basu and Anurag Kashyap are other directors I would love to work with. Salman Khan, Abhay Deol, Hrithik Roshan are heroes I would like to be paired alongside.

What is that one thing which makes you truly happy?
Travelling and vacations make me super happy. I have been to seven countries till now and Thailand is going to be my next destination in January.

In an exclusive interview with Femina Miss India Org, Miss India Indore 2013, Zoya Afroz talks about her dream of becoming a Miss India, making her country proud at the international platform, winning strategy that sets her apart from the other contestants and more...

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

I believe that this is only the beginning. Winning Miss Indore was a proud moment for me and I feel happy that I am one of the finalists to qualify for a prestigious pageant like Miss India. My current state of mind tells me to work hard to move closer to the goal I have been dreaming to achieve.

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?

My journey began when I was 3-years-old and my mother put me into the film industry. I have been a child artist and have worked in a number of Hindi movies and TV commercials and absolutely loved doing so. I have adored all beauty queens ever since childhood days and wanted to grow up into one someday. Looking at pictures of Aishwarya Rai adorning the Miss World crown, I too decided to be a Miss India and make my country proud. I would therefore say that Aishwarya was my inspiration behind seeing myself as a Miss India.

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

I am training very hard for the big day as I want to put in my best in all aspects. My routine includes physical training like gymming and following a measured diet. Gymnastics helps me keep my body fit. I am reading a lot of books to improve my speaking skills. I am fortunate to have been blessed with a team of mentors that helps me work on my strengths.

About your fitness routine and health regime

Keeping your body fit and in shape is very important, especially when you are competing to become the next Miss India. I hit the gym every day and eat right that defines my fitness mantra. Also, I do not forget to take good care of my skin.

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

Winning Miss India means the world to me. I am not very far from realising my dream and I promise to make sure I give my best shot. Winning the title would make my country proud of me and I hope that I clinch the title at the International pageant as well so that the sense of pride continues to live.

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

My confidence sets me apart from the other contestants. My only winning strategy is to keep my focus fixed at that beautiful tiara.

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

I am quite confident of winning 'eye'conic eyes and glowing skin subtitles in the finale round.

Projects/advertisements you are currently endorsing

I have done a punjabi film titled "Sadi Gali Aaya Karo" that released recently. I have been part of a few TV commercials for Coca-Cola and Asian Paints among others. I hope the list expands after winning Miss India.