India's Rachel Gupta crowned first Miss Grand International 2024
29 OCT 2024
Rachel Gupta, a 20-year-old who hails from Jalandhar in Punjab, has made history by becoming the first Indian and only the third Asian to be crowned Miss Grand International.
The competition featured 68 contestants from various countries and territories, who were either selected through national contests or handpicked. Rachel earned her spot by winning Miss Grand India 2024, organized by the Galamanand Group, in August. She also claimed multiple sub-titles at the national level, including Miss Top Model, Best in Ramp Walk, Beauty with Purpose, and Best National Costume.
“From the get-go, Rachel showed immense potential. Though only 20, she had been doing pageantry for a while now and this really showed in her poise, her choreography, and command of the stage. She was the standout performer of the event and its deserved winner,” said Shamkhan A, show director of Miss Grand India 2024. Rachel began her journey in the world of pageantry in 2022 at the age of 18, quickly making a mark by winning Miss SuperTalent of the World in Paris. Her preparation for the Miss Grand International title involved various rounds, including swimsuit and sportswear competitions, a national costume parade, preliminary competitions, a closed interview, and the final show.
The outgoing titleholder, Luciana Fuster from Peru, crowned Rachel, and the Miss Grand International team praised her, stating, “She embodies beauty, elegance, and true talent. May her journey to success shine even brighter with each step she takes.”
In her final speech, Rachel urged world leaders “to stop fighting and start respecting each other and to make sure that there are enough resources for everyone on this planet.” Rachel Gupta also pressed on the issues faced in her homeland, India, further securing her position as a humanitarian representative. She spoke about the need for better education, healthcare, and economic opportunities to uplift those in need, showcasing her compassion and understanding of global issues. Rachel shared: "In India, not everyone has access to essentials like food, water, and education, which is the case in many parts of the world. We must stop conflicts and work together to secure resources for all.”
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