When people think of beauty pageants, the first thing that comes to mind is girls up on stage, decked out in their best attire with their makeup and hair expertly styled. On the other hand, some people take notice of the hard work, dedication, and preparation that goes into these events. Pageants are for empowered women who have a vision of making themselves stronger and better, and empower other women to do the same, and come together as one.” The focus on empowerment is something we could focus on more than just the physical beauty of the women who compete.
Manatasha Khan has participated in the Mission Dreams beauty pageant Miss India 2021, representing her state Madhya Pradesh. She was very nervous before taking part in the pageant but after getting selected she feels a lot more empowered. “I now have the confidence to be more outgoing, to speak up about a certain issue or situation, and just talk among a crowd of people,” Manatasha explains.
Mantasha wants to make her parents proud and further she adds, ” Earlier when I participated in a beauty pageant, When I would be backstage waiting for my turn, my stomach would be in knots; I was nervous. Once I got on stage, I used to black out, and not really remember what exactly I said. But, that comes with it; it’s a learning experience and an adjustment. Pageants are not about changing yourself, they are about showcasing yourself”. Pageants provide a platform for these women to express themselves and their views on, and to look their best while doing it.