Pageant returns after five-year sabbatical
‘If you know you have the potential and qualities to be a good rep for Miss India Fiji, then do come for the auditions,’ said reigning Miss India Fiji Sheryl Kumar
Artistry and talent is anticipated to be on show when the Miss India Fiji pageant returns on September 15, after a five-year sabbatical. The pageant winner will get a chance to compete in the Miss India Worldwide Pageant in New York, United States, which is considered to be the largest ethnic beauty pageant in the world.
“The Miss India Fiji Pageant is intended to provide entertainment and enlightenment about Indian arts and culture to the audience,” said pageant co-ordinator Ranjit Raju.
Mr Raju was speaking yesterday at the press conference in unveiling the resumption of the pageant at the Indian High Commission in Suva.
Mr Raju said there would be benefits and opportunities for the contestants; and an annual worldwide event for the participation of the Indo-Fijian community.
“Our goal is to promote the Indian culture and performing arts development and awareness of our arts, customs, culture, philosophies and history through this Miss India Fiji,” said Mr Raju.
Hosting an event like this, and sending a participant to New York, would need a big budget, says executive team member Riddhi Damodar. “I am well aware of the expenses needed to organise a pageant like this,” she said.
“We are hoping to receive a lot of support from large business houses; major sponsors will get the naming rights of the event.” Reigning Miss India Fiji Sheryl Kumar said winning the event was an overwhelming experience, which interested participants should aim to feel. “The intense atmosphere is nerve-wrecking when you are standing in the lineup for the top five finalists,” Ms Kumar said. “I would like to encourage all young girls to give it a try. If you know you have the potential and qualities to be a good rep for Miss India Fiji, then do come for the auditions. You never know until you try.”
The audition starts August 6.