Introducing Riya Choudhary, a 23-year-old based in New Delhi, Delhi, whose journey embodies resilience and determination. She’s a versatile professional juggling roles as a freelance model, aspiring actor, and an upcoming content creator. With a degree in Business Administration, she navigates the corporate realm while finding solace in theater, travel, and table tennis. Despite facing financial hurdles and societal narrow-mindedness, she embraces her dreams with no regrets.
Contesting for India’s Miss TGPC Season-12 against 50 other girls from across India and beyond, Riya is ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and advocacy, all while showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of India.
TGPC: What motivated you to participate in India’s Miss TGPC?
Riya: Since I was 19, I have been in pageants, never winning the crown but always growing through the journey. Now, with TGPC as my next pageant, my aim remains the same: to better myself and fight until the last opportunity. Secondly, TGPC provides essential grooming and training even after the pageant ends which really motivates me. It is also a chance to share my story and inspire others to chase their dreams, despite setbacks, just like me.
TGPC: Why do you believe you are deserving of the India’s Miss TGPC title?
Riya: A winner is a dreamer who never gives up, as Nelson Mandela famously stated, and that’s exactly who I am. Because of how my journey has shaped me into a candidate who accepts herself for who she is, grows from it, and maintains her confidence, I think I deserve to win this crown. I have encountered obstacles along the way, but never wavered in my determination demonstrating resilience and perseverance.
TGPC: Looking towards the future, what are your plans, both with and without the crown?
Riya: I believe every contestant has a unique journey and deserves recognition. Winning the crown is destiny due to which I do not limit my dreams. If crowned, I will use the platform to advocate for neglected causes like animal welfare. With TGPC’s support, I aim to inspire people to pursue their passion. Beyond the crown, I will continue my 11-year commitment to caring for strays and raising awareness among people around me. As a budding content creator, I will focus on pageant-related content to assist financially vulnerable girls in their training and journey.
TGPC: Growing up, what would you say was your biggest challenge?
Riya: Growing up, my biggest struggle was managing my mental health and finding happiness in the face of domestic abuse in my household. Financial dependency on others who didn’t believe in my big dreams and encouraged me to choose regular employment added to the struggle. Despite all this, I am determined to break this cycle and make a better life for me and my family which keeps me going. Seeking help from psychologists, I continue to battle my demons and work towards improving my mental health, as I recognize it as an ongoing journey.
TGPC: Beyond winning, what aspect of India’s Miss TGPC are you most excited about?
Riya: I am excited for the learning that the journey of TGPC would provide with different trainers and coaches. Meeting girls with diverse stories and learning from them is also what excites me. I have always cherished the genuine sisterhood and friendships formed in pageants, and I’m eager to build more of these uplifting connections.
TGPC: As an aspiring winner of India’s Miss TGPC, what legacy do you aspire to leave behind?
Riya: I want my legacy to motivate people to never give up or settle for less than what they want or are capable of achieving. Always be kind and loving towards others, and especially towards themselves, as self-love is crucial. For those facing challenges that make their dreams seem out of reach, I want them to know that no situation lasts forever, and no dream is impossible. If you truly desire something, you will always discover a way to make it happen.
TGPC: Could you share with us the causes or issues that you are particularly passionate about, and how do you intend to utilize this platform to create an impact?
Riya: I am deeply passionate about animal welfare, believing all species deserve equal respect on Earth. It pains me to witness animals exploited every now and then. Shockingly cases of dogs being raped and killed are not uncommon, yet perpetrators often face a mere ₹50 penalty for such heinous acts, highlighting a significant loss of humanity in our society. With 11 years devoted to helping strays and supporting welfare groups, I see this platform as crucial for advocating meaningful change on a larger scale.
Secondly, Mental health is a cause deeply personal to me, given my own struggles. Despite growing awareness, denial and ignorance persist. It is vital to openly discuss these experiences and minor symptoms to shatter the cycle of denial and stigma, affecting not just the individual but those around them. This issue is already highlighted but By sharing my journey, I aim to help others recognize and accept their own symptoms and struggles, fostering greater understanding for mental health challenges.
TGPC: Is there any message you’d like to convey to those reading this?
Riya: To those reading this, I would like to share a few thoughts: Seek out what brings you joy, for happiness is the cornerstone of a healthy body and mind. Cherish and enjoy life; we only get one chance at it. Even if we have never met, we each have our dreams and Though our paths and aspirations might differ, we are all journeying toward our unique destinations, slowly but surely. Believe in your choices and ease the weight on your shoulders. Extend kindness to all animals; their needs and desires from us are minimal. Even small actions, like looking after local strays, can make a significant difference.
If you feel Riya should win India’s Miss TGPC, you can vote for her and help her win the Miss Popularity title which will give her a direct placement in the Top 20. They can vote on the link: [CLICK HERE].