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Were there any life-changing incidents?
We were told to make a speech and answer questions in 30 seconds.
During the preparation, we realised that women talked a lot, but never
really got to the point. We kept going round and round the bush and, in
the process, totally forgot what the point was. This realisation was very “ I am extremely
important for me, so I started staying on track when I spoke with other thankful to my
people in my life, such as my husband, domestic helper and colleagues.
I would think and restructure what I needed to say to anyone or in any husband who
situation, even while shopping. This was my take back and will be an
ongoing practice till it becomes a part of my nature. supported me
What other principles defi ne your life? unconditionally
I love to seek spiritual wisdom from Guru Granth Sahib Ji and apply it in
my life through common sense. I have a very scientifi c approach to life and and gave me the
usually accept nothing until it passes the fair test. I also get very excited
about organising Sikh camps to share Guru’s simple, yet practical ways wings to soar.”
of living, especially to the youth as they are our future. I have a creative
heart which I express through art, lyrical dancing, and writing analogies to
simplify diffi cult concepts of science and spirituality.

Were you surprised when you won?
Oh yes! I didn’t expect to win the crown. I was very overwhelmed. During
the ramp walk, I could hear my heart beat and it made me feel alive and
youthful. People’s cheers and screams made me genuinely happy.

Now that you have this recognition, what are your future plans?
Now that I have announced to the world that I want to act in fi lms,
let’s see if any opportunity knocks on my door. I am also open to any
responsibility that comes with this title — to participate in various
community service activities in order to help the Thai and Indian
communities. The organisers of the competition, Eventology intend
to reach out to underprivileged children in orphanages to make small
contributions. I would like to help out in any way I can to positively
infl uence society.

Pageants are fraught with negative connotations. Did you have to
deal with any negative reactions?
In general, yes, perhaps there are some negative perceptions attached to
pageants. But right from day one, when project manager Renu Bhatia
fi rst shared her thoughts about how the pageant was being planned with
an emphasis on elegance and maturity, I was convinced to join. Having
said that, there were a few people who did ask why I felt the need to
compete and what would I gain from it. Without really having to, I dealt
with their questions because it helped clarify my own intentions and
purpose. I feel the reactions of people are just projections of yourself,
your subconscious mind wanting more clarity, and once clear, no
negativity comes your way. At a personal level, I am extremely thankful
to my husband who supported me unconditionally and gave me the
wings to soar.
How do you inspire other women?
To be beautiful inside and out, we need to express and not suppress
ourselves. I believe life is love and identity fully expressed. We should also
face the world with courage and confi dence, yet not lose the feminine
qualities of compassion and humility. I try to live by these values and
would like to inspire women through my expression and behaviour.

What is your advice to women who plan to participate in
next year’s competition?
To be yourself and enjoy the process. It’s a win-win opportunity.
As a contestant, you will grow as an individual, make new friends,
create wonderful memories and, most importantly, feel a sense
of accomplishment.

Event photography by KK Studio

Mrs. India-Thai 2017 was the fi rst competition of its kind in the Thai-Indian community.
Organised by Eventology, this competition aims to bring Indian and Thai cultures
together, as well as to empower women from all walks of life. The 25 contestants were
between 35 to 55 years and are professionals, entrepreneurs, teachers and housewives.
Other winners include fi rst runner-up Pooja Mirchandani, a homemaker and hands-on
mother to two teenage kids, as well as second runner-up Aishwarya Kapoor, a working
single mother with a passion for interior design, travel and Bollywood dance. After the
resounding success of the fi rst pageant, members are already eagerly looking forward to
Mrs. India-Thai 2018.
First Runner-Up: Pooja Mirchandani Second Runner-Up: Aishwarya Kapoor

ALL- A C CESS INT O B ANGK OK ’ S C ONTEMP OR AR Y INDIAN LIFEST YLE