A Clinical Psychologist and Robotics Educator by profession, Virja is also a passionate fashion and jewelry stylist who curates and exhibits her designs. Her victory is a celebration of individuality, creativity, and dedication to personal growth. Speaking about her inspiration, Virja shared, “Every married woman and mother around me was my motivation. Too often, women give up on their dreams after marriage or motherhood. I was inspired by those who continued to chase their goals, and I wanted to be part of that movement – to show that it’s never too late to rise, shine, and lead.”

Virja credits her sister, Vinika Vijay Kasar, for being her unwavering cheerleader, and her husband, Jay Harachchand Shah, for his constant support and shared responsibilities at home. “Their belief in me kept me going. And a big thank you to Diva Pageants for giving women like me – who don’t meet conventional pageant standards like height – a platform to stand tall in every sense.”

Reflecting on her experience, Virja expressed, “I was nervous on stage, but thanks to Karl Mascarenhas, our brilliant mentor, and Anjana Mascarenhas, our wise guide, I walked with confidence I didn’t know I had. Their training and belief transformed even the shyest participants into stars.”

Now wearing two crowns, Virja feels more determined than ever. “This win has ignited something in me. It’s a reminder that once you open your wings, you must fly high – and not stop until you create a legacy. I’m excited to continue this journey in the world of pageantry and inspire more women to believe in themselves,” she smiles.

The post Virja Kasar Shah’s Remarkable Double Victory at Mrs India – Empress of The Nation 2025 appeared first on NRI News.

The event, organized by Anjana Mascarenhas and Karl Mascarenhas of Diva Pageant, was graced by renowned celebrities Rohit Roy and Tanisha Mukherjee, who brought warmth, encouragement, and star power to the occasion.

A trained Kathak teacher, certified Yoga and Zumba instructor, and an Engineer by qualification, Abhilasha embodies a rare blend of discipline, creativity, and determination. She is also a devoted mother to a 7-year-old son who is on the autism spectrum—a role that has profoundly shaped her identity and mission.

“I wanted to do something just for myself,” shared Abhilasha. “As a wife, mother, and daughter, I fulfil my responsibilities wholeheartedly. But this journey was mine. I want to be an example for all mothers raising special children, to show that your child’s uniqueness is not a burden, but your superpower.”

Though she had never entered a pageant before and described herself as an introvert, Abhilasha embraced the platform with courage. “I was nervous and excited. It was a big stage, and every contestant was exceptional. But I reminded myself that I belonged there too.”

Abhilasha credits her son, whose unspoken encouragement inspired her daily, as her biggest source of strength. “He cannot speak, but his eyes always motivate me,” she said. She also expressed deep gratitude to her husband, parents, and siblings for their unwavering support. “And of course a big shout out to Anjana mam and Karl sir for their immense encouragement and perfect grooming”, she smiles.

Reflecting on her transformation, she says, “This pageant taught me the power of self-love. The grooming sessions, training, and the overwhelming respect and love I received from my family, friends, and community have helped me rediscover myself. I’m walking into the future with confidence, ready to explore new opportunities and make a meaningful impact.”

With her crown in place and a mission in her heart, Mrs. Radiance 2025 is poised to light the way for many more.

The post Abhilasha Sinha from Pune Shines as ‘Mrs. Radiance’ at the Prestigious Mrs. India Empress of The Nation 2025 appeared first on NRI News.

In its 8th consecutive year, Mrs Maharashtra featured 53 finalists from diverse backgrounds of Maharashtra, each showcasing their remarkable abilities. Women from various walks of life and age groups graced the stage, highlighting that beauty, talent, and grace have no boundaries. Organized by DIVA Pageants, (www.divapageants.com) the 8th season celebrated the limitless potential of Women.

The event was graced by an esteemed panel of juries, including Sonali Kulkarni, the renowned actress from iconic Bollywood films like Dil Chahta Hai, Singham, and many more. Alongside her, actor Virat Madake contributed to the judging panel. Other distinguished jury members included Apeksha Dabral, DIVA Queen and Universal Woman India 2024 Social Project Winner; Karl Mascarenhas, Director of DIVA Pageants; Farha Anwar, Mrs. India 2016 & Mrs. Asia 2018, and organizer of Mr., Ms., and Mrs. Madhya Pradesh and Miss and Mrs. Central India, Meghna Dewan Gopal, Woman of the Universe Indo Asia 2024; Vidhya Tiwari, popular food critic, and fashion stylist; and Shikha Singh, Mrs. Maharashtra 2023 Winner, Season 7.

The evening was hosted by Chaitanya Rathi, whose engaging presence kept the audience captivated throughout the night. The training, led by Grooming Mentors Anjana & Karl Mascarenhas, along with Cicilia Sanyal, Madhavi Ghosh, and Apeksha Dabral, helped the finalists unlock their full potential and present their best selves on stage.

Over four days, the contestants underwent personalized coaching in poise and presentation, Q&A, ramp walks, and more. This comprehensive grooming and coaching were key highlights of the event. The choreography was expertly crafted by Pooja Singh, ensuring a visually stunning and polished presentation. DIVA Margaret Shibu was crowned Mrs. Millennium Universe India 2025, and DIVA Radhika Bhushan was crowned Woman of the Universe India 2025. They will now proudly represent India on the global stage.

The seamless execution of the event was made possible by a dedicated team, including Mrinalini Bhardwaj, Mrunali Tayade, Tanuja Bangera, Cicilia Sanyal, and Spenta Patel, who ensured every detail was impeccably coordinated.

The winners of Mrs. Maharashtra 2024 Season 8 included:

Silver Category

Winner: Nanditha Chauhan

1st Runner-Up: Mehar Equbal

2nd Runner-Up: Pratiksha Jagtap

3rd Runner-Up: Monika Bhosale

Gold Category

Winner: Dr. Swetha Karlapudi

1st Runner-Up: Dimple Zaveri

2nd Runner-Up: Priyanka Gowardhan

3rd Runner-Up: Amrita Kaur

Elite Category

Winner: Prajakta Bhoir

1st Runner-Up: Anupama Singh

2nd Runner-Up: Dr. Manisha Naik

3rd Runner-Up: Pramita Shetty

Official Partners

Powered By: HYATT Pune

Media Partner: Lokmat

Magazine Partner: Grehlakshmi

Wellness Partner: O Esthetics Pune

Traditional Round Partner: Pranali Rental Studio

Makeup Artist Nail Partner: Coco Nails Pune

Jewellery Partner: WeBe Events and Production

Makeover Partner: Sunayna Kamble

Charity Partner: We Help Welfare Foundation

Casting Partner: Diva Talent Hub

Beauty Partner: 7th Heaven Salonss

Gifting Partner: Kothari’s Royal Organic Foods

Gifting Partner: Sabalan Foods

Gifting Partner: Hazel Cosmetics

Gifting Partner: Ridaan Array

Gifting Partner: Modasutra

Gifting Partner: Protios

PR Partner: Inspirations

Pageant Media Partner: Pageant & Influence

Social Media Partner: Purple Shine

Videography Partner: I Plus Media Solutions

Photoshoot Partner: Desi Artists India

Eyewear Partner: Lawrence & Mayo

Event Managed by: Kubber Events

Pageant Partner – Mrs Kerala: Mrs Keralam

Pageant Partner – Mrs. Madhya Pradesh & Mrs. Central India: Mr. Miss Mrs Madhya Pradesh & Miss Mrs. Central India

The post Unveiling Mrs Maharashtra 2024 Season 8 appeared first on NRI News.

Despite the profound grief, Meghna showed immense strength and determination, embodying the true spirit of resilience. Throughout her journey, she was guided by the mentorship of Anjana Mascarenhas, her national director, the founder and director of Diva Pageants, and an esteemed international grooming coach. Anjana played an instrumental role as Meghna’s national director and coach, ensuring that she was prepared to shine on the global stage. Additionally, her international journey was further shaped by Skills Studio, led by Priya Rathore, who helped Meghna refine her communication and diction, adding another layer of confidence to her presence.

Before stepping onto the global platform, Meghna’s journey took shape in India. In 2023, she achieved the titles of Grehlakshmi Mrs. India Curvy 2023 and Diva International Queen 2023, following her impressive stint as a finalist in Mrs. India Empress of the Nation, a prestigious competition organized by Diva Pageants. These national titles not only established Meghna as a prominent figure in Indian pageantry but also laid the foundation for her eventual representation of India on the world stage.

Hailing from Delhi, Meghna is not only a beauty queen but also a dedicated dentist. Her journey from the clinic to the pageant stage reflects a story of transformation, where she has balanced a professional career with her passion for pageantry.

Meghna’s experiences serve as an inspiring example for others, demonstrating that no challenge is too great to overcome and that aspirations can be pursued alongside personal and professional commitments.

Her achievements are a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the guidance she received from mentors along the way. Meghna Dewan Gopal’s journey—from winning national titles to making India proud on the international stage—stands as a powerful narrative of courage and triumph.

The post A Dentist’s Journey to Becoming a DIVA appeared first on NRI News.

In a powerful display of inclusivity, the Pageant featured Women from across the Nation, representing diverse backgrounds & age groups with varying abilities, showcasing that true beauty and talent are limitless.

Visionaries Anjana and Karl Mascarenhas are the driving forces behind DIVA Pageants (www.divapageants.com), whose mission is to create a platform that not only celebrates beauty but also fosters the growth of strong, inspiring women who defy stereotypes and inspire change.

This grand event was graced by illustrious Celebrities such as actress and former Miss India Isha Koppikar whose star power added Glamour to the proceedings.

The esteemed panel of Judges included Sandeep Singh – renowned Hotelier and General Manager HYATT Pune, Dr Leena Gupta, owner of MEESHA Diagnostics & Polyclinic, our presenting partner; Karl Mascarenhas – Director: DIVA Pageants, Apeksha Dabral DIVA Queen and winner of Universal Woman India- Social Projects & Aarti Gautam, Mrs Asia Pacific 1st Runner-up.

DIVA Pageants is acclaimed for its exceptional pageant grooming and training. Their comprehensive Grooming of the 54 Finalists over 4 days –  included Personalized Coaching on Poise & Presentation, Q&A, and Ramp Walk. This transformative journey empowered the Contestants to present their best selves, embracing their full potential.

The Choreography was masterfully crafted by Pooja Singh, whose direction ensured a breathtaking and polished presentation. Charismatic Aman Yatan Verma hosted the event with flair.

Winners of Sub-Titles were crowned by Meghna Naidu nationally famous for her super-hit song ‘Kaliyon ka Chaman’.

• DIVA Queen Shweta Shahare has been crowned Mrs. Gaia World India 2024 and will represent India in Malaysia shortly
• DIVA Dr. Meghna Gopal Dewan will represent India as Mrs. Indo Asia 2024 at the prestigious Woman of the Universe in Turkey on Oct 24
• Shradha Nazareth was bestowed with the title of International Queen

The seamless Event execution was orchestrated by an adept team including Cicilia Sanyal, Mrunali Tayade, Tanuja Bangera & Spenta Patel, who meticulously coordinated every detail.

Winners of Mrs India Empress of the Nation 2024 -Season 5

Silver Category

• Winner: Dimple Dsouza
• 1st Runner-Up: Dr Anushree Pande
• 2nd Runner-Up: Shikha Sharma

Gold Category

• Winner: Manisha Anand
• 1st Runner-Up: Saee Khalate
• 2nd Runner-Up: Anita Majoo

Elite Category

• Winner: Pooja Bhagwat
• 1st Runner-Up: Sushma Sharma
• 2nd Runner-Up: Shailaja Madhok

Plus category

• Winner: Shivangi Dalvi

This season of Mrs India Empress of the Nation was not just about Winning the Crown – but encouraging each Contestant to Win At Life – thus empowering them to Dare*Dream*Dazzle!!

Official Partners –

1. Presenting Partner: Meesha Diagnostics
2. Official Queens Residence Partner: Hyatt Pune
3. Gifting Partner: Daishik Chutneys and Masalas
4. Dessert Partner: The Dessert Lounge
5. Gifting Partner: Erayba India
6. Gifting Partner: Food Craft Studio
7. Spa Partner: Kasturi Spa
8. Hair and Make-up Partner: Salon Apple
9. Yoga partner: Swasthya Yoga by Shweta Kirad
10. Nail Partner: To The Nines
11. Videography Partner:  Iplus media solutions
12. Photography Partner: SJ Illumination
13. Photoshoot Partner: Desi Artists India
14. Media Partner: Lokmat
15. Charity Partner: We Help Foundation
16. Gifting Partner: Modasutra
17. Casting Partner: DIVA talent hub
18. Magazine Partner: Grehlakshmi
19. PR partner: Inspirations
20. Traditional Round Partner: Futari Chhori
21. Western Gown Partner: The Big Closet
22. Jewellery Partner: RIIVAA
23. Wealth Management Partner: Golden Bells Financial Services Pvt Ltd
24. Eyewear Partner: Lawrence & Mayo
25. Cause Partner: Prashanti Cancer Care
26. Pageant Partner: Mr/Ms/Mrs Madhya Pradesh

The post Mrs India Empress Of The Nation 2024 – Season 5: Embracing Excellence appeared first on NRI News.

The event was graced by celebrity guests Sarah Jane Dias, Akshay Waghmare, Virat Madake, and Vidhya Tiwari, adding glamour and inspiration to the proceedings. The esteemed jury panel, including Deepti Chacko Bangera, brought their expertise and insight to judging the contestants.

By profession Shweta is an airline professional, having worked as an air hostess with different airlines, as well as ground staff at Delhi International Airport. Traveling across the globe has been a high and widened her horizons, gaining confidence and learning varied cultures, and winning accolades too. “My biggest achievement was when I organized an educational tour at very short notice and that too with good cost savings and profit margins. This was acknowledged well and I was honored with the ‘Best Employee Award’, which for me is a very good achievement”, shares Shweta, who is currently working as a senior travel associate in KC Overseas Education.

Talking about her pageantry experience, she says it was a dream come true for her. “I was a little apprehensive initially, whether to participate or not, but thanks to the encouragement and push from my husband, Gaurav Shahare, who is GM at Olam International in Africa, I just leaped. And when I won Gaurav and my 9-year-old daughter, Anaika were cheering the most for me”, she says proudly.

“DIVA Pageants holds the reputation of being the leading pageant in India and has been instrumental in transforming women, enabling them to shine in every facet. The event’s grandeur and success are testimony to the dedication and efforts put in by their founders, Anjana and Karl Mascarenhas”, says Shweta. 

Besides traveling Shweta loves dancing and cooking and confesses to being a foodie, loving all kinds of cuisines. So what’s next on the cards for her? “I now look forward to venturing into modeling and brand endorsements. And even being a part of DIVA’s next pageant, on an international platform”, she says.

The post Nagpur’s Shweta Shahare an aviation professional flies high winning two crowns at DIVA Pageants’ Mrs Maharashtra 2023 appeared first on NRI News.

Mrs Maharashtra 2023, the brainchild of Karl and Anjana Mascarenhas, Directors, DIVA Pageants, wowed Pune with its 7^th season.  The event was graced by celebrity guests Sarah Jane Dias, Akshay Waghmare, Virat Madake, and Vidhya Tiwari, adding glamour and inspiration to the proceedings. The esteemed jury panel, including Deepti Chacko Bangera, brought their expertise and insight to judging the contestants. “DIVA Pageants is known to be the most authentic and safest pageants for women in India. From day one I sensed that I was at the right place. The dedication of Anjana mam and Karl sir towards grooming each participant is unparalleled”, Ranjana says.

A mother of two daughters, Ranjana’s elder daughter, who is married, is a music aficionado and a piano tutor. Ranjana along with her younger daughter is working on a footwear brand, Drunch (www.drunch.in). “Drunch is a new age footwear fashion brand for women who love to dress up, yet be super comfortable in what they wear”, she explains.   

Besides looking into the nitty gritty of Drunch, Ranjana, a fitness freak, also follows her calling towards yoga as a trainer. ‘Yoga is the need of the hour today. Yoga is a complete healer. It not only heals you physically, it also heals you mentally. Even with a simple chanting of “OM” there is so much healing, where you keep connecting with yourself”, she explains. “Because in today’s hustle and bustle of life, we’ve all forgotten to connect with ourselves. We’re so busy connecting with the world outside. There is so much mental stress and pressure. Probably the biggest problem that today’s youth is facing is mental health. I believe yoga to some extent subsides that problem, healing them from the inside, so that they can face the trauma that they have been going through. Yoga and meditation would help them focus. Yoga is a saving grace. It’s like when the sky is covered with dark clouds, suddenly a ray of sunlight enters and you see a rainbow”.

Ranjana gives all credit for her success and achievements to her husband Vipul Shah, a businessman, and her high school sweetheart. “We have been together for 30 years. It is thanks to his unstinted support and constant encouragement and push, that I have been successful in whatever I pursue, today”, she smiles,

“Finally I’d like to say to everyone in our generation as well as the new generation – never say ‘I know it all’ because you can learn, something new from someone, every day. There is no age to learn – it has no expiration date. You can keep growing in life while you continue to learn and tread onto newer pastures”, sums up Ranjana who next looks forward to participating in the Mrs India 2024 competition by DIVA Pageants.

The post Ranjana Shah wins the coveted Mrs. Photogenic Award at Mrs. Maharashtra 2023 held by DIVA Pageants appeared first on NRI News.

A nurse by profession, Dipa is also a passionate fitness freak who loves cycling, running, hiking, and dancing, including Bharatnatyam, Kathak, and Western styles. She was among the 50 confident, charming, and charismatic women from all walks of life who shared the stage, leaving the audience in absolute awe that night.

“I’m on a mission to spark a revolution of self-celebration among women. No more conforming – let’s embrace the quirks, the strengths, the extraordinary in each of us. Picture a canvas where every woman paints her own unique story unapologetically”, smiled Mumbai’s Dipa Aironi, Finalist at the Mrs Maharashtra 2023 pageant. This spark in her resulted in her walking away with 3 beautiful crowns – Mrs. Talented, Mrs. Beauty With a Purpose & Mrs. Digital Queen, in the Gold Category!

Dipa gives credit to her husband, Dr. Balaji Aironi, a Cardiovascular Thoracic Surgeon (Heart Transplant Surgeon), and her two lovely daughters for their unwavering support and cheer, without whom it would have been impossible for her to dare to dream.

The event was graced by celebrity guests Sarah Jane Dias, Akshay Waghmare, Virat Madake, and Vidhya Tiwari, adding glamour and inspiration to the proceedings. The esteemed jury panel, including Deepti Chacko Bangera, brought their expertise and insight to the challenging task of judging the contestants.

Dipa Aironi’s win at the Mrs Maharashtra 2023 grand pageant is a testament to her multi-faceted personality, passion for dance, and mission to spark a revolution of self-celebration among women. Her triple crown win is a remarkable achievement, and we wish her all the best for her future endeavors.

Dipa’s next dream is to contest at the DIVA Mrs India Empress of the Nation 2024 pageant. She thanks her mentors Anjana & Karl Mascarenhas of Diva Pageants for creating this platform for women to dare, dream & dazzle.

The post Dipa Aironi Wins Three Sub-Titles at Mrs Maharashtra 2023 Grand Pageant appeared first on NRI News.

The pageant featured married women from various age groups and walks of life, showcasing their unique stories and breaking stereotypes. The event was a testament to the pageant’s commitment to inclusivity, with the participation of a deaf and mute contestant, proving that beauty and talent know no boundaries.

Anjana and Karl Mascarenhas, the founders of DIVA Pageants, were instrumental in conceptualizing and executing this prestigious event. Their vision was to create a platform that not only showcases beauty but also empowers women to break stereotypes and emerge as role models.

The event was graced by celebrity guests Sarah Jane Dias, Akshay Waghmare, Virat Madake, and Vidhya Tiwari, adding glamour and inspiration to the proceedings. The esteemed jury panel, including Deepti Chacko Bangera, brought their expertise and insight to the challenging task of judging the contestants.

The event was flawlessly coordinated by Cicilia Sanyal, Mrunali Tayade, and Spenta Patel, ensuring that every aspect of the pageant was executed to perfection. The Talent Round anchoring and the Sub-Title Crowning hosting were done by one of the most amazing coordinators – Mrinalini Bharadwaj.

The show’s choreography was orchestrated by the talented Pooja Singh, whose expertise and guidance proved instrumental in setting the stage ablaze.

Hosting the event was Chaitanya Rathi, who brought his unique charm and charisma, ensuring the event’s flow was seamless and engaging.

Winners of Mrs. Maharashtra 2023

Silver Category

• Winner: Himani Singh
• 1st Runner-Up: Neha Parab
• 2nd Runner-Up: Supriya Tambe

Gold Category

• Winner: Shikha Singh
• 1st Runner-Up: Shweta Shahare
• 2nd Runner-Up: Vaishali Hiray Ranga

Elite Category

• Winner: Bindu Unnikrishnan
• 1st Runner-Up: Nisha Kapila
• 2nd Runner-Up: Romaa Whaabi

The event was supported by official partners including Burgundy by Axis Bank, Novotel Pune, Lokmat, Wehelp, Grehlakshmi, Inspirations, Creative Dental Clinic and Implant Centre, Vallabh Sarees, Healy/Optimum Life, Ark Samrat, Prakash Holistic Healthcare Centre by Dr Nidhi Agarwal, Lees Makeup Academy and Spa, Sameksha Nahar & Ritu Agarwal, Iplus Media Solutions, SJ illumination, Sahil Shah, Modasutra, Seetara, Suhana, DIVA Talent Hub, Shallis Confectionery by Chef Sharwari, and Lawrence & Mayo.

Mrs. Maharashtra 2023 Season 7 with DIVA Pageants was a grand success, solidifying its standing as the number one pageant in Maharashtra. The event celebrated diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment, breaking barriers and inspiring women to shine in every facet

The post Mrs. Maharashtra 2023 Season 7: Breaking Barriers with DIVA Pageants appeared first on NRI News.

The 4th season of Mrs India Empress of the Nation by Diva Pageants, held on 18th June 2023 at The Hyatt Pune saw 50 Confident, Charming, and Charismatic women from all walks of life share the stage, leaving the audience in absolute awe that night.

 “The grooming and mentoring sessions have been an eye-opener.  Anjana & Karl Mascarenhas of Diva Pageants are very committed and passionate individuals who have created this platform for women to dare, dream & dazzle. They bring experts from different fields to give the best whether it is to Pageant walk with style or pose for a photo like a pro. It is every girl’s dream to walk that ramp like a DIVA once in a lifetime. In the end, everybody goes home a winner with a life skill and a desire to achieve more. Personally, for me, it was like a finishing school which came at the right age and time for me to break my limitations and explore new avenues”.

Actor, Neelam Kothari Soni led the Elite Jury along with Actor & Sports Presenter – Ridhima Pathak. Sandeep Singh – GM HYATT, Pune,  Swatee Kumar – C.A., Ovette Ricalde – International Pageant Director, Dr. Leena Gupta – Winner Mrs. India MIEN 2021, Cicilia Sanyal – Winner Mrs. India MIEN 2021, Farha Anwar – Mrs. Asia 2018, Karl Mascarenhas – Director DIVA Pageants,  were the esteemed judges for the evening.

Celebrity host & Actor, Aman Yatan Verma hosted this grand event with his customary verve and vigor. 

An ashtanga yoga practitioner, a dancer, a traveler, and a hardcore Bangalorean. Sujatha lives in the IT & Pub city with her family, two children, and pet parent of a dog & cat. Her husband, Krishnaraj Sharma and she both work in the IT sector. 

What next? “When dreams are gifted to you, it becomes a whole new reality to live, love and cherish. Winning the crown has become an inward journey of finding self. And now I am looking forward to what this crown holds in store for me! I aspire to inspire women to come out of their shells, find their talent & go after their dreams. Age is indeed just a number!”, signs off Sujatha.

The post Bangalore’s IT woman Sujatha Sharma breaks glass ceiling – wins the crown of Mrs. India Empress of the Nation 2023 pageant appeared first on NRI News.