Latest news with #MissGrandInternational
Hindustan Times
35 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Internet calls Miss Grand International President ‘shameless' after he body shames Rachel Gupta in ‘shocking' post
Rachel Gupta, the 21-year-old who won the Miss Grand International (MGI) 2024, recently sparked controversy after her resignation from the title. Days after Rachel announced that she would be stepping down from her role, Instagram posts of Vice President of Miss Universe (Asiana) and Miss Grand International president Nawat Itsaragrisil have surfaced where he body shamed her and accused her of getting 'surgery' done. Also Read | Rachel Gupta cries, shares truth about Miss Grand International: 'Made to sell cheap products on TikTok like salesgirl' Per the screenshots shared by the Instagram page Indian Pageant and Glamour, Nawat had shared two photos of Rachel on his Instagram stories, which he captioned, 'Before' and 'After'. He also posted another image of Rachel, accusing her of getting surgery done. 'She don't talk and she don't get authorised from organisation when we ask her she said she ate protein a lot. She confirmed no surgery at all…(sic).' A post shared by Indian Pageant and Glamour (@pageantandglamour) The Instagram page Indian Pageant and Glamour shared the post with the caption, 'There should be no place for a person like him in an organisation like Miss Universe @missuniverse. It should be a platform for empowerment and not harassment.' An Instagram user wrote, 'This is too much😭😭. How on earth can someone do this, and especially when he is one of the pageant organisers? To empower women? And do this?' Another commented, 'Did MGI organisation just body shame Rachel Gupta on their story? This is unbelievable; they have no respect for women, they only hide under the umbrella of women's empowerment. So shameless.' A comment read, 'Shocked at the lack of professionalism.' Another said, 'Exactly my point, people are willing to overlook anything for a crown. But let's be real, we wouldn't want our sisters, nieces, or daughters in the same situation, why tolerate it for others? Nawat's deceit is glaringly obvious, and it's sad that he'll do whatever it takes for a slice of fame.' On May 28, Rachel posted a letter on Instagram announcing that she would be stepping down from her role, and on May 29, she shared a video on YouTube revealing her side of the story and the toxic environment she faced at the hands of the Miss Grand International organisation.
The Star
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Miss Grand International 2024 termination sparks online backlash
Rachel Gupta, 21, is an Indian model and beauty queen who made history as the first Indian to win the Miss Grand International title in 2024. Prior to this, she was crowned Miss Grand India 2024 and Miss Super Talent of the World 2022. - Photo: The Nation/ANN NEW DELHI: Rachel Gupta, the 21-year-old model from Jalandhar who made history by becoming the first Indian to win the Miss Grand International title in 2024, has now relinquished her crown — just seven months into her reign. However, the organisers mentioned that her title has been revoked, adding that 'the crown be returned to the MGI Head Office within 30 days from the date of this notice.' The organisation's head office is in Bangkok. The announcement quickly went viral, as it is rare for a titleholder to be dethroned mid-reign. Netizens swiftly began digging into the controversy, speculating and exposing alleged details. Theories ranged from breaches of discipline and inappropriate behaviour to long-standing internal issues dating back to the day she was crowned. Some even linked the dismissal to potential breaches of contract or silent defiance of the organisation's policies. Fans have rallied behind Gupta, pushing the hashtag #JusticeForRachel to trend in several countries, while demanding a clearer explanation from the pageant organisation. - Photo: Instagram On Wednesday (May 28), Rachel announced her resignation on Instagram, citing 'broken promises, mistreatment and a toxic environment.' Gupta addressed the situation via Instagram, stating: 'To all my supporters around the world: I'm truly sorry if this news has disappointed you. Please know this wasn't an easy decision, but it was the right one for me.' 'The truth will come out very soon. I love you all more than words can express. Thank you for standing by me.' The following day, she released a YouTube video titled 'The Truth about Miss Grand International — My Story,' in which she offered an unfiltered account of her experience, levelling disturbing allegations against the pageant's organisers. However, on its official Instagram page, Miss Grand International released a statement mentioning that Rachel's title was revoked due to 'her failure to fulfill her assigned duties, engagement in external projects without prior approval from the organisation, and her refusal to participate in the scheduled trip to Guatemala.' 'Miss Rachel Gupta is no longer authorized to use the title or wear the crown associated with Miss Grand International 2024,' it added. - Photo: The Nation/ANN Long-term impact of such experiences on mental health and self-worth Gurleen Baruah, existential psychotherapist at That Culture Thing, tells 'In such environments, a woman's body becomes a product to be displayed, measured, and controlled. Over time, this relentless pressure can lead to internalised perfectionism, body dysmorphia, disordered eating, and a haunting belief that love, success, or safety depends entirely on how you look.' What makes it even more harmful is the emotional isolation. Baruah explains that when you're surrounded by glamour but deprived of real support or autonomy, self-doubt turns into quiet self-rejection. Signs that someone might be trapped in a toxic or exploitative environment One of the clearest signs of a toxic or exploitative environment is the loss of personal autonomy. Baruah states, 'When adults are denied access to essentials, and expected to perform happiness while privately struggling, it starts to mirror cult-like dynamics. Subservience is rewarded, dissent is punished, and over time, the person may begin to question their own judgement.' Seeking help in these situations is hard, especially when power dynamics are steep and isolation is enforced. But even the smallest act of reaching out — whether it's talking to a trusted family member, quietly messaging a friend, or contacting a support organisation — can begin to break the silence. - Agencies
The Citizen
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Where and how to watch the 72nd Miss World Grand Final
Representing South Africa this year is 18-year-old Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg. The Miss World competition, which began its 72nd edition in Hyderabad, India, on 7 May, will crown its new queen this weekend. The live final of Miss World 2025 will be broadcast from Hyderabad this Saturday, 31 May, with South Africa's Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg among the 108 contestants. Taking place at the HITEX Exhibition Centre in Telangana, the event will be broadcast live at 1pm GMT (3pm South African time). ALSO READ: 'They don't care if I live or die': Miss Grand International Rachel Gupta quits her reign Where and how to watch the Miss World 2025 crowning The crowning will be televised in select countries, including India, France, Colombia, Jamaica, Mauritius, Vietnam, Botswana, Trinidad & Tobago, Lebanon, and others. For those in countries not covered by the televised broadcast, including South Africa, the grand final will be streamed live online via Representing South Africa this year is 18-year-old Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg. READ MORE: Get to know Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg, representing Mzansi at Miss World competitions On Friday morning, Zoalize took to Instagram to thank South Africans for their love and support as she continues her journey in pursuit of the crown. 'I have worn you on my heart for the past month, and it has been a full-circle moment. Getting to share the purpose of not only myself but so many with the world has been fulfilling. 'For those familiar with my journey, I want to thank you for walking this walk with me. I appreciate you all more than words can express,' she added. NOW READ: 'Kivuli & Nuru: The Afrodisiacs Collection' —African erotic stories delving deep into the queer world of desire
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Who is Ahaan Panday? Know about his debut in YRF's Saiyaara, age, family, career, and more
Know about Ahaan Panday: Bollywood is excited about the advent of a new star: Ahaan Panday, nephew of Chunky Panday and cousin of Ananya Panday, will debut in Saiyaara, a love drama from Yash Raj Films. The newly unveiled trailer, which shows the newcomers' intense chemistry and suggests a heartwarming love story, has attracted much attention. Saiyaara is expected to be one of the year's most anticipated releases because of its moving narrative and melodic undertones. A significant partnership between Yash Raj Films and Mohit Suri, the picture is scheduled to open in theatres on July 18, 2025. It promises a cinematic experience that combines heartbreak, passion, and deep music. Who is Ahaan Panday? Born in Mumbai, Maharashtra, on December 23, 1997, Ahaan Panday is a rising Indian actress, model, and social media star. Ahaan is the cousin of actress Ananya Panday and comes from a well-known Bollywood family. His father, Chikki Panday, is a businessman and the brother of actor Chunky Panday. Since he was young, he has been fascinated by acting; he has shared Dubsmash videos on social media and collaborated with pals to create short films like "Fifty" and "Jollywood." Additionally, he has served as an assistant director on movies like "Mardaani 2," "Rock On 2," and "Freaky Ali" (2016). Ahaan Panday's family Ahaan Panday's family has a long history in the fitness and Bollywood industries. His mother, Deanne Panday, is a renowned fitness expert and health coach; his father, Chikki Panday, is a well-known person in social and professional circles. Alanna Panday, Ahaan's sister, has established herself as a prominent influencer and content creator, drawing notice with her lively online persona. Ahaan's ancestry also includes a hint of film heritage as he is the nephew of Bollywood actor Chunky Panday. This fusion of family talent and entertainment background fascinatingly frames Ahaan's career path Also Read: Who is Rachel Gupta? She recently quitted from Miss Grand International - Know her career, educational qualification and more Ahaan Panday's education qualifications Ahaan Panday completed his schooling at Oberoi International School in Mumbai. He then pursued higher education at the University of Mumbai, where he graduated with a degree in Fine Arts, Cinematic Arts, Film and Television Production. Ahaan Panday's debut with YRF Speaking about Ahaan's debut movie, Saiyaara, on May 30, YRF unveiled the much-anticipated trailer. In the teaser, which lasts one minute and sixteen seconds, Ahaan appears to be portraying a rock star who develops feelings for Aneet's character. YRF announced the movie on April 22. Additionally, Saiyaara is the first time Yash Raj Films and Mohit Suri have worked together. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.
The Citizen
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
'They don't care if I live or die': Miss Grand International Rachel Gupta quits
She was crowned Miss Grand International 2024 in October last year. Rachel Gupta, the Miss Grand International 2024, has announced her resignation, citing a toxic work environment and broken promises. However, the pageant organisers claim she was dismissed for misconduct and breach of contract. The 21 year old made history in October last year at the 12th edition of the pageant, becoming the first Indian to win the Miss Grand International title. But less than a year into her reign, Gupta announced her departure in a statement shared on social media on Wednesday. 'The months following my crowning have been marked by broken promises, mistreatment and a toxic environment I can no longer endure in silence,' Gupta said. Gupta, who was expected to serve until the next titleholder is crowned in October this year, said the decision to step down was not easy. 'I ask for your compassion, your open hearts, and your continued support as I take this next step,' she added. Gupta also published a video titled The Truth About Miss Grand International – My Story on YouTube, detailing her experiences over the past seven months. In the video, she alleged that the pageant organisers mistreated her by pressuring her to stay extremely thin, failing to provide basic support such as access to a gym and forcing her to sell 'cheap, tacky products' on TikTok. 'Frankly, they don't care if I live or die. They just want me to smile at events, stay skinny and make them money.' She further alleged that a pageant representative once physically pinched her body to criticise her weight and appearance. 'I had to beg and beg for them to give me a yoga mat… at the same time, they were hounding me and constantly talking about my weight and my body.' Miss Grand International hits back at Gupta On Thursday, the Miss Grand International Organisation released a statement announcing Gupta's termination. It cited her alleged failure to fulfil contractual duties, unauthorised work engagements and her refusal to travel to Guatemala for a scheduled appearance. The organisation also requested that she return the crown within 30 days. 'Miss Rachel Gupta is no longer authorised to use the title or wear the crown associated with Miss Grand International 2024. The organisation has resolved to revoke her title with immediate effect,' the statement read. The organisation also posted a detailed timeline, among other allegations, accusing Gupta of arranging unauthorised cosmetic procedures at a sponsor's clinic in South Korea for her mother and sister without informing the pageant and then refusing to post promotional content in return. NOW READ: Amato's 'Doll's House 2' asks tough questions
