- Femina Miss India Gujarat opens its doors to bold dreamers ready to rewrite their story
- Inspired by resilience, multicultural roots and purpose—not just glamour
- Reigning Miss India Runner-up Rekha Pandey says confidence is shaped long before the crown
- NAEMD brings the world’s most iconic beauty platform to Gujarat
- Auditions begin February—belief is the real qualification
GOWRI MANICKAVASAGAM
AHMEDABAD, jan 28
For young Gujarati women who believe their dreams deserve a bigger stage, an extraordinary opportunity has arrived. In a landmark development for Gujarat’s fashion and talent ecosystem, The Miss India Organization, Worldwide Media, has appointed NAEMD – NEST Academy of Event Management & Development, Asia’s Best Event Management College, as the Official Licensee of Femina Miss India Gujarat.
The collaboration brings one of India’s most iconic beauty and talent platforms to the state—opening doors for aspiring young women to explore opportunities in fashion, glamour, media and the entertainment industry, while also creating a robust experiential learning platform for event management students.
The announcement was graced by Rekha Pandey, Reigning Femina Miss India Runner-up, who spoke candidly about how the Miss India platform transforms young women far beyond the ramp.
“Femina Miss India gives young women confidence, exposure, and direction. It prepares them for life beyond the stage,” Rekha said, encouraging Gujarat’s talented young women to come forward and take the leap.
Rooted in Diversity, Raised with Perspective
Rekha also reflected on how growing up in Daman, a Union Territory neighbouring Gujarat, played a defining role in shaping her outlook and adaptability.
“Being brought up in Daman gave me the gift of multiculturalism. I grew up surrounded by different languages, traditions and lifestyles. That exposure taught me acceptance, flexibility and confidence in my own identity,” she said.
She added that this early exposure helped her navigate the Miss India journey with empathy and openness.
“When you grow up understanding diversity, you don’t feel intimidated by different perspectives—you learn from them. That mindset helped me connect with people, judges and audiences from across the country.”
Inspired by ‘Unfinished’, Driven by Growth
Sharing what inspired her personally, Rekha revealed that Priyanka Chopra’s book Unfinished deeply influenced her mindset during the competition.
“Reading Unfinished made me realise that no dream comes perfectly packaged. Priyanka’s journey taught me that it’s okay to feel incomplete or unsure—as long as you keep moving forward. That belief stayed with me throughout Miss India,” she said.
When asked what mindset contestants should bring to the competition, Rekha emphasised authenticity over perfection.
“Come with honesty, resilience and self-belief. Don’t chase the crown—chase growth. Miss India rewards women who are grounded, curious and willing to evolve. The platform only amplifies who you already are,” she said.
Reflecting on life after winning the coveted title, Rekha added, “Miss India changed how the world sees me—but more importantly, it changed how I see myself. It gave me a voice, responsibility and opportunities far beyond fashion.”
Clear Path, Professional Guidance
Speaking on the occasion, Pravin Joshi, Director, NAEMD, outlined the eligibility criteria and professional structure of the event.
“Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum height of 5.5 feet and complete an online registration with a fee of ₹500,” he said.
He added that shortlisted participants will undergo a one-week grooming and training programme, covering communication, confidence-building, stage presence and personal development.
“This is not just a beauty contest—it’s a learning journey. Every shortlisted candidate receives professional grooming and exposure, regardless of the final outcome,” Joshi said.
Dates That Matter
The Femina Miss India Gujarat auditions will be held on 7th February and 13th February 2026, while the Gujarat Finale is scheduled for 24th February 2026, where the state’s most promising young women will compete for the prestigious crown and a gateway to the national platform.
For Gujarat’s young women, this is more than an audition—it’s an invitation to step into confidence, culture and possibility.
