Pune-based Tanvi Kharote (21), a graduate in Computer Application, always had a dream of winning a beauty pageant crown. She got the opportunity when she participated in India’s Miss TGPC (formerly known as TGPC’s Miss India), season 7 — a web-based pageant conducted in a reality show format.
Sania Memon (21), who has completed her Bachelor of Commerce, is a strong believer in ‘hard work’. Memon, who participated in Mr and Ms India Supermodel Hunt 2019, won the title with her sheer dedication and relentless efforts. The competition, held in Jaipur, was judged by celebrities like Ranvijay Singh, Priyank Sharma, Sophia Choudry, Upen Patel, Meenakshi Chaudhary and many others.
“Everyone faces ups and downs in life, but what matters is how well we carry our teachings along,” says Memon. In an interview with Sakal Times, Memon and Kharote share more about their recent achievements.
Kharote says that she still cannot believe that she has won the crown. “It still hasn’t sunk in that I have been crowned the winner of India’s Miss TGPC season 7. I feel that I am on top of the world. I am so overwhelmed and happy with the amount of love that has been showered on me after winning the title. I truly believe that destiny has something planned for everyone, just keep going and never give up.”
Memon, however, believes in giving herself a pat on her back for her win. “I am extremely happy. Wining a national pageant has always been my dream. And when your dream turns into a reality, it gives you so much of joy. All this while, I would ask my college principal, Dr Gulshan Gidwani, if I would make it? But she always believed in me and kept me motivated throughout,” says the youngster.
To begin her journey, Kharote started with research. TGPC is an online pageant with various rounds. Selecting the right outfit according to the requirement of the videos, and preparing well for the Q and A round is a little challenging. However, she says that anyone can win the crown. “You just need to be yourself, reflect positivity and have confidence,” she says.
Agreeing with Kharote, Memon adds, “Only if you believe in yourself, every impossible thing becomes possible. Also, it’s very important for an individual to be focused on what s/he actually wants and go for it with all the passion.”
Mr and Ms India Supermodel Hunt 2019 gave its participants a chance to interact with the best mentors Babla Kathuria and Rita Gangwani from the industry. They spent enough time and provided proper guidance to the contestants. For Memon, Meenakshi Chaudhary has been the pillar. She says that looking at the journey so far feels great and the team feels like family now. “This experience has made me believe that the sky is not just the limit and the world is a beautiful place to be in,” says Memon.
Kharote’s journey was slightly different. She observed, practised and learnt everything by herself. She proves that ‘where there is a will there is a way’. The roller coaster ride of competing with 51 equally talented participants from across the nation was a lifetime experience.
Now, Kharote plans to go for bigger pageants, whereas Memon does not have any immediate plans. “But yes, I definitely aim to work on myself everyday and make sure every small thing counts. I believe everyday is new so grab the opportunity and live life to the fullest,” adds Memon.
Kharote is also doing her bit for society, by supporting unheard voices. “Being a public figure, I am using my voice for Maher, which provides shelter to streets kids and women. It helps them with education, builds confidence and makes them independent. I have been associated with them for the past two years,” she says.
Life gets easier when you have your loved ones supporting you. For both Kharote and Memon, their family and college have been their strong pillars. “My dream is their dream. Despite the narrow-minded society, my family gave wings to my dream. My college St Mira’s has also been the best support I could ask for. I am overwhelmed by their wishes and love,” says Kharote with Memon adding, “I got the exposure to the industry because of my family. My mother had this faith that one day I will win the crown. I was always focused and determined to get into the world of pageants along with my education.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas and her entire journey has been a big inspiration. Along with that, my college, St Mira’s has also been supportive throughout my journey. My principal is not just a teacher but a friend and an angel who has taught me that it’s okay to fall but never give up. If one is determined and has the vision to achieve something, the universe always helps you achieve it.”
