We all have dreams, but how many of us actually have the perseverance to pursue our dreams? Nikita Thomas has. She has dreamt of winning beauty pageants ever since she happened to watch the Miss Kerala contest live. She was in the sixth standard when winning the title that tested both beauty and brains caught her fascination. It grew with her and became a passion that encouraged her to work hard and stay focused. Her hard work finally paid off when she was crowned Miss South India at the 17th edition of the beauty contest, organised by Pegasus.
However, for Nikita, it is just the beginning and she has a lot more to achieve. “I have been dreaming of participating in beauty contests ever since I was a child and it was never a passing fancy for me. I have worked hard to groom myself each passing day. I strongly believe that it is my confidence that pushed me to those levels that even I had not imagined to reach,” says Nikita.
She adds that it was not easy to get into that zone where you have to be extra cautious about even the slightest mannerism of yours. Nikita says, “I used to watch several videos of various beauty contests wherein I would pay more attention to the question-answer round that is the most important part of the entire competition. Anyone can work on their looks, but the intelligence level that one has can only be improved if you read and try to gather more information about the things happening around you.
Practising the right walk and posture – even though I have always been comfortable in heels – was also part of the home work.
Fitness is one of the inevitable parts of my daily routine. However, for the contest, I concentrated more on strength training. Toning the body and getting in that perfect shape was definitely the first thing on my list.”
All these preparations, in addition to the grooming session before the event, worked in Nikita’s favour and made her more confident day by day. She did win the title and became eligible to contest in the Miss Queen of India contest as well.
Commenting about the prejudiced approach towards beauty pageants, Nikita says that though society has developed a lot, there are many parents who are skeptical about sending their daughters for such contests. One should understand that beauty pageants are just like any other contests, and help women feel empowered and independent. “I would say that society should understand and respect the dreams of each and every kid, and try to help them realise those dreams. My mom has always been there to support me, which has boosted my confidence to a great extent. But I am very well aware that there are parents who don’t approve of their children taking part in beauty contests. I would tell those youngsters that believing in you is the best way to make others do that as well.”
Nikita, who is a second year degree student, adds that her teachers supported her throughout the journey. In addition to making a successful career, she is also planning to take part in as many beauty contests that give her a chance to represent her country on an international platform.
