Over 46 finalists participated in the competition, showcasing their skills across fashion, talent, and empowerment initiatives. Aarti Borole competed in the Silver Category and emerged as the winner, earning the prestigious title of Mrs Maharashtra 2025 Season 9. In addition to the main crown, she also won the Mrs Achiever Subtitle Crown and the Best Dress Crown.

Aarti returned to India from the United States in 2023 and has over 10 years of experience in the IT industry. She is currently working as a Senior Software Engineer at Apexon. Besides being a dedicated professional, fitness and dance are her passions, and she maintains a disciplined lifestyle, spending an hour daily at the gym.

Her journey to winning the title involved immense dedication and hard work. Aarti successfully balanced her professional responsibilities, family life, and rigorous pageant preparations. She often practiced late into the night, preparing for her introduction, talent rounds, and various stage segments. 

A big shoutout to my husband, Tushar! He’s been my constant motivation and support system alongwith my two children. I owe this crown to them, beams Aarti.

Expressing her gratitude further, Aarti shared that Anjana and Karl Mascarenhas, Founders of DIVA Pageants, were her strongest pillars of support throughout the journey.

My next goal is to participate in the Mrs India pageant and bring home the crown, smiles Aarti. 

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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.

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.

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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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The 4th season of Mrs. India Empress of the Nation by DIVA Pageants, held on June 18, 2023, at the HYATT Pune, featured 50 remarkable women from diverse backgrounds who captivated the audience with their charm and charisma.

“With the excellent support and guidance of Anjana and Karl Mascarenhas, Founders, of DIVA Pageants, I gained tremendous confidence and was ready to make a mark on the world stage. They wave a magic wand on all the contestants – and at the end of the day, everyone goes home a winner – with their dedicated mentoring, grooming, and motivation that they give us all”, beams Kakoli.

She further adds,” I find immense joy in shaping young minds and believe that education is essential for everyone, especially the underprivileged. My dream is to establish a small school for underprivileged children, aiming to provide them with the opportunity to receive a quality education. Be persistent, and work hard with your goals.”

Recognizing her remarkable contributions, Kakoli Ghosh was honored with the Excellence Award 2023 as an animal activist. Her passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others is truly commendable.

And with the unwavering support from her husband, Dr. Saibal Ghosh, a renowned pulmonologist, and her loving daughter, Diya, who is extremely proud of her mother’s achievements, Kakoli is all set to win many more laurels soon! “It was my dream to wear the crown and the sash – and that done, through this amazing win I wish to make a shelter for the strays and use the fame and glory of this platform to connect with people who will make this journey easier and better”, she signs off.

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This season was all about promoting Inclusivity by embracing each woman’s individuality. Age is just a number – that’s something they strongly proved last night. Divas from 21 to 70 years of age spread across Silver, Gold, and Elite categories, respectively, walked the ramp with utmost poise and grace.  The Introduction of the Plus-Size Award was another cherry on the cake for this fashion-forward, Women Empowering Pageant.

This grand event was presented by NIBE Limited and Co-powered by Meesha Diagnostics & Polyclinic.  The Guests of Honour were Mr. Aseem Gupta, Principal Secretary – Urban Development, Mr. Vikram Kumar- Pune Municipal Commissioner & Manjusha Nibe – Founder NIBE Limited.

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. 

Selecting the Top 3 Winners in each category from the 50 gorgeous women on stage was a herculean task for the jury, as all of them performed exceptionally well.

Title Winners –

Silver Category (21 to 38 years)

Winner:  Priyanka Gadia – Pune

1^st RU :  Abhilasha Chahalia – New Delhi

2^nd RU:  Dr. Neha Prabhu Salgaoncar – Goa

Gold Category (39 to 49 years) –

Winner:  Apeksha Dabral – Bhopal

1^st RU:  Dr Mrinalini Bhardwaj – Pune

2^nd RU:  Rakshhaa Karwa – Mumbai

Elite Category (50  years onwards) –

Winner:  Sujatha Sharma – Bangalore

1^st RU : Seema Sinha – Delhi

2^nd RU :  Kakoli Ghosh – Kolkatta

Plus – Size Category

Winner: Dharini Panchal – Mumbai

The Coronation of Six International DIVA Queens was the highlight of the event. It would be a matter of pride for our country, when these Women represent India in various International Pageants, under the keen supervision of International Pageant Coach, Anjana Mascarenhas of  DIVA Pageants.

DIVA Queens at International Pageants :

Nilakshi Lohi: Mrs Earth Asia Pacific 2023

Dr. Mrinalini Bharadwaj : Mrs. Tourism India 2023

Dr. Urvashi Patil : Mrs. Universe Official India 2023

Kashmira Doctor: Elite Mrs. Universe Official India 2023

Nikkoo Dsouza: Elite Mrs. Grand Universe 2023

Dr. Meghna Dewan Gopal: International Queen 2023

Show Director & Choreographer, Pooja Singh, mesmerized the audience with her well-choreographed sequences.

This event in all its grandeur was flawlessly co-ordinated by Cicilia Sanyal, Mrunali Tayade, Anjani Kushwaha, Tanuja Bangera & Spenta Patel.

Mrs. India Empress of the Nation, a registered pageant, is the brainchild of Karl &  Anjana Mascarenhas which best exemplified the DIVA belief; Dare Dream Dazzle.

Partners that made the event Grand :

Presenting Partner – NIBE Ltd

Powered By – HYATT Pune

Co-powered by – Meesha Diagnostics & Polyclinic

 Media Partner – Lokmat

Smile Partner – Sweet Smiles Dental Clinic & Implant Centre

PR Partner – Inspirations

Gifting Partner – Modasutra

Numerology Partner – Ank Jyotiishi

Tarot Partner – Mystic Empress

Official Show Director & Choreographer – Pooja Singh

Makeover Partner – Style Mantra & Sia

Charity Partner – We Help Welfare Foundation

Talent Partner – Diva Talent Hub

Nail Partner – SimMon Nails & More

Beauty partner – O’Esthetics 

Dessert Partner – Choco Kasttle  & Florango

Chocolate Partner – Crumbs & Cherries

Tea Partner – Glenlicious

Hair Care Partner- Erayba/

Magazine Partner – Grehlakhmi

Social Media Partner – Mom chronicles & Anshu Das

Weight Management Partner – ProGen Weight Management

Gifting Partner – Kanu DryFruit

Beverage Partner – Sula Vineyards

Beverage Partner- BIRA

Eyewear & Sunwear Partner – Lawrence & Mayo

Photography Partner – SJ Illumination

Videography Partner – iPlus Media Solutions

Photoshoot Partner – Sahil Photography 

Assistant Choreographer – Ajay Lokhande

Official Anchor of Subtitle Ceremony, Talent Round & The Red Carpet – Vibhuti Pandey

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