The Great Pageant Company (TGPC) is thrilled to announce the winners of the inaugural ‘Pageantry Disruptor of the Year-India 2024’. This exclusive accolade was created to recognize and honor those who have significantly reshaped the pageantry landscape with their exceptional contributions. After a rigorous selection process, the esteemed jury panel meticulously reviewed 72 impressive entries from Indian pageantry and ultimately selected 11 individuals whose innovative efforts have set new benchmarks in the industry.
These trailblazers, including National Directors, Beauty Queens, Pageant Contestants, Stylists, Designers, Pageant Trainers etc have each left an indelible mark on the pageant world since January 2023. Their dedication and ingenuity have not only transformed the standards of pageantry but have also inspired countless others in the community. TGPC is proud to celebrate these visionary disruptors and their remarkable achievements, which continue to shape the future of pageantry in India. Let’s meet the winners.
Sargam Koushal
Sargam Koushal became the second woman from India to win the Mrs. World title, achieving this honor after a gap of 21 years. Her victory was more than just a title; it set new benchmarks in the pageantry world. Sargam is one of the rarest winners in the Mrs. segment to remain exceptionally active throughout her reign. During her reign, she traveled to more than 10 countries, covering almost 90,000 miles. In a category of pageantry where getting decent photoshoots and assignments is challenging, Sargam consistently secured photo shoots and assignments, making a significant mark for herself. Her journey is an inspiration to every married woman, demonstrating that dreams can be pursued and achieved regardless of marital status or age.
Serena Khat
Serena Khat has emerged as a groundbreaking force in the pageantry industry by becoming the first Indian national director to establish an all-inclusive beauty pageant—Miss Cosmos Queen India. By eliminating traditional criteria such as height, age, body shape, and marital status, Serena created a platform that welcomes and celebrates diversity. She is also the first national director to send an international delegate for India with a height of 5’1 who brought the crown home.
Beyond redefining eligibility standards, Serena has also revolutionized the styling landscape within the industry. At a time when styling services were often overlooked, her influence has significantly raised awareness and emphasis on personal styling. This year she became the only stylist in the world to have styled in Miss, Mrs and Teen category of beauty queens in both national and international level. Serena Khat’s innovative approach and inclusive vision have not only transformed the pageant industry but have also empowered women from all walks of life to participate and shine.
Upasana Rawat
Born and raised in an Army family with Pahadi genes, Upasana Rawat has made a significant impact in the pageantry world as the first-ever notable national pageant winner from India standing at 5’1″. Her journey from not meeting the basic height criteria to winning an international pageant is a testament to the power of self-belief. Upasana stands as a strong advocate for inclusivity, believing that beauty comes in all colors, shapes, and sizes. Later, Upasana also became the first ever international title winner of 5’1″ height by bagging the title of Miss Unity World Air and Ambassador 2023.
Her story is a roller coaster ride of perseverance and triumph, proving that even the shortest beauty queen can make a significant difference. Upasana Rawat’s groundbreaking achievements have redefined standards and inspired countless others, solidifying her role as a true disruptor in the pageantry industry.
Urmimala Boruah
Urmimala Boruah, the founder of Queen of the World India pageant, has rapidly established one of the most successful pageants in India—a feat unmatched by any other. Her leadership has led to multiple international victories, and the queens from her camp have graced prestigious events like New York Fashion Week and the Cannes Film Festival, marking a historic first for any Mrs. category pageant in India. The quality of the pageant, particularly the production of the Season-3 finale, has set new standards, rivaling international pageants in excellence. Urmimala’s relentless innovation and strategic collaborations with influential figures have redefined pageantry in India, setting a new benchmark for excellence.
Nikhil Anand
In 2015, at the age of 21, Nikhil Anand made history by becoming the youngest National Director in India to acquire an international franchise. Following this milestone, Nikhil expanded his portfolio by securing numerous international franchises such as Miss Grand International and Miss Charm International. He also established prestigious international pageants, including Miss Teen International and Miss Multinational. Nikhil’s most recent achievement is obtaining the franchise for Miss Universe India under the Glamanand Group. Year after year, he has consistently raised the bar, setting new standards for production quality in beauty pageants across India.
Nikita Tanwani
After winning India’s Miss TGPC Season 5 in 2018 and becoming Femina Miss India state winner, Nikita Tawani, launched a YouTube channel that has since become the first and largest platform dedicated to empowering young women aspiring to win beauty pageants. With nearly 400 videos and over 3 million views, her channel provides invaluable resources and guidance to those lacking the information and support to get started in the field of pageantry. Nikita’s influence extends beyond India, reaching an international audience and transforming viewers into coaching clients from countries like Nigeria, Japan, Canada, the UK, and the USA. Harnessing the power of social media, Nikita Tanwani stands out as the only pageant coach in India with a free educational channel, reflecting her commitment to giving back to the field that transformed her life. Her innovative approach and global impact have made her a true disruptor in the pageantry industry.
Pankaj Kharbanda
Pankaj Kharbanda, Managing Director of Rubaru, has revolutionized the male pageant industry in India. In a sector marked by instability and frequent challenges with stakeholders and sponsors, Pankaj’s unwavering leadership has ensured Rubaru’s success and longevity. Under his visionary guidance, Rubaru has not only thrived but has also secured numerous international titles for India in the male category. His dedication and strategic prowess have elevated Rubaru to the pinnacle of prestige within the industry. Pankaj Kharbanda’s contributions have solidified his reputation as a true disruptor in the world of pageantry, transforming Rubaru into a benchmark of excellence.
Dr Nida Khateeb
In an industry where contestants traditionally focus on their walk, communication, and wardrobe, Dr. Nida Khateeb has revolutionized pageantry by integrating dental cosmetics into the preparation process. As a cosmetic dentist specializing in smile makeovers, Dr. Khateeb has created a niche and heightened awareness for the importance of a perfect smile, making it an essential component of any contestant’s preparation. Dr. Khateeb’s entrepreneurial skills and innovative approach have established a strong foothold for dental professionals in the pageant industry. Her influence, relationships, and exposure in the industry are unparalleled. She is the mastermind behind the million-dollar smiles of many past and current national and international pageant winners, with her work speaking volumes about her expertise and dedication. Her seamless integration of dental cosmetic services into the pageant preparation routine has transformed contestant priorities, earning her the title of a true disruptor.
Kalpana Shukla
Kalpana Shukla, hailing from Kanpur, made history as the first Indian to place in the top three of the Mrs. Universe pageant, securing the first runner-up title in its most competitive year. Despite the challenges Indian contestants often face in this prestigious competition, Kalpana’s remarkable performance earned admiration from the international organization. Kalpana’s journey is one of determination and resilience. After getting married and having two beautiful children, she decided it was time to revive her dormant dreams. With unwavering support from her family, Kalpana fearlessly entered the world of pageantry and navigated its challenges with grace and tenacity. Her success at Mrs. Universe opened new doors, leading her to walk in various national fashion weeks and the renowned New York Fashion Week. Kalpana Shukla’s groundbreaking achievements have not only elevated her own status but have also paved the way for future Indian contestants, firmly establishing her as a disruptor in the pageantry industry.
Ajay Nair
Ajay Nair has made a significant impact in the pageantry industry as India’s first full-fledged male pageant coach. In an industry predominantly lead by women coach, Ajay has carved out a unique and successful niche, producing numerous national, regional, state, and city winners. As the founder and director of AJ Modeling School in Udaipur, Rajasthan, established in 2021, Ajay has focused on providing pageant awareness and training in the small city of Udaipur. His school offers pageant training at nominal charges, making it accessible to a wider range of aspiring contestants. Through his dedicated coaching and mentorship, AJ Modeling School has successfully helped numerous students secure placements in various pageants. Ajay Nair’s innovative approach and dedication have not only elevated the standards of pageant coaching in India but have also inspired many in a field where male coaches are a rarity. His contributions have solidified his reputation as a true disruptor in the pageantry industry.
Priyan Sain
Priyan Sain made history by becoming the first Indian to secure a placement at Miss Earth since 2010, breaking a 12-year streak of non-placement for India. Despite India sending remarkable representatives each year, the general assumption was that India would not place at Miss Earth. Initially, this was the expectation for Priyan as well. However, from the moment she arrived in Vietnam for the competition, the tide began to turn in her favor. She ultimately shattered the non-placement streak by entering the Top 20 of the Miss Earth finale. Priyan’s success has revived faith in Indian representatives’ ability to excel at Miss Earth, inspiring many young women to pursue their dreams of participating in the pageant. Her achievement has reignited hope and enthusiasm, proving that with determination and perseverance, Indian contestants can indeed make their mark on the global stage. Priyan Sain’s groundbreaking accomplishment has made her a true disruptor in the pageantry industry.
We congratulate all the winners on their remarkable achievements and look forward to seeing them continue to elevate and innovate in the world of pageantry in the future!