Shivani Bagadia, Mrs Universe India 2024, Recreates a Piece of History that Laid the Foundation of Indo-Korean Friendship

In a dazzling display of Indian heritage and cultural diplomacy, Shivani Bagadia, Mrs Universe India 2024, graces the 47^th Mrs Universe pageant stage in Incheon South Korea with a breathtaking national costume inspired by the legendary Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya, Bharat- present India, also known as Queen Heo Hwang-ok of Samguk Yusa– the 13th Century Korea.

The intricate design of Bagadia’s costume is a visual treat, capturing the essence of ancient India and its historical ties with Korea. The ensemble is a testament to the enduring spirit of Princess Suriratna, a young Indian princess from Ayodhya, Bharat who braved the treacherous seas to reach the shores of ancient Korea and marry King Suro. Her journey marked the beginning of a profound cultural exchange that continues to shape the relationship between the two nations.

As Queen Heo Hwang-ok, Suriratna introduced Indian traditions, philosophies and knowledge to Korea, leaving an indelible mark on its history and culture. She is credited with introducing various aspects of Indian culture, including the Sanskrit language, medicine, agriculture, and astrology. Her teachings are believed to have significantly influenced the development of Korean society and culture.

One of the most notable contributions of Queen Heo Hwang-ok was her introduction of the concept of Hyeondae, which translates to “modern times.” This concept is believed to have laid the foundation for the development of Korean civilization and its subsequent advancements in various fields. Moreover, Queen Heo Hwang-ok is said to have played a crucial role in promoting peace and harmony between the different kingdoms of ancient Korea. Her wisdom and diplomacy are believed to have helped to prevent conflicts and maintain stability in the region. To this day, the legend of Princess Suriratna aka Queen Heo Hwang-ok continues to inspire the people of India and South Korea and the descendants of Queen Heo Hwang-ok consider Ayodhya, India as their motherland.

King Suro, the ruler of the Geumgwan Gaya Kingdom, played a pivotal role in the life of Princess Suriratna. He welcomed her with open arms and married her, recognizing her wisdom and beauty. King Suro is often credited with establishing the foundation of the Gaya Confederacy, a loose alliance of small kingdoms that flourished in ancient Korea. His reign is remembered for his promotion of cultural exchange and his efforts to foster peace and prosperity in the region.

Mrs Universe India 2024 Shivani Bagadia’s representation of Princess Suriratna at the Mrs Universe pageant is a powerful statement of India’s rich heritage and its enduring connections with other cultures. Her stunning appearance not only showcases the beauty and diversity of Indian fashion but also serves as a reminder of the historical and cultural ties that bind India and Korea. This choice of national costume is a diplomatic gesture that celebrates the shared history and cultural heritage of India and Korea. It is a powerful message of unity, understanding, and respect. As the world continues to become more interconnected, the importance of cultural exchange and diplomacy cannot be overstated. Shivani’s representation of Princess Suriratna at the Mrs Universe pageant serves as a shining example of how cultural diplomacy can foster understanding, strengthen relationships, and promote peace.

This National Costume of India at Mrs Universe 2024 is a brainchild of the visionary founder and director of She is India, Richa Singh and has been brought to life by national costume designer Melvyn Noronha, a legend of the pageant world. Melvyn is known for his larger-than-life costumes and creative ideas. She is India is known for their representation of powerful women of legend through their national costumes.

She is India’s concept of Goddess Saraswat for the national costume of India at Mrs Universe 2023 drew the attention of the world to the Indian culture and earned lauds at Mrs Universe 2023 which was held in Manila, Philippines. In Indian culture, it is believed that Gods reside within us. We are the reflection of the Gods and Goddesses we believe in and they are a reflection of our true self. As the proverb goes, knowledge is power- the more we know, the more self-aware we get and the more power we possess. Goddess Saraswati is the symbol of knowledge. Women can empower themselves with knowledge to not just know their true selves, but also to know their real worth. Saraswati symbolizes the inner goddess of a woman that gives her the leverage to make her own choices and live by her own will.

The She Is India organization, founded by Richa Singh, serves as a transformative platform for Indian women to express themselves beyond societal labels. Committed to women’s empowerment against domestic violence, the organization provides opportunities for women to break barriers and voice their opinions. Richa Singh, a visionary founder, serves as a guiding light throughout the event, embodying the spirit of empowerment and change that defines the organization.

About She Is India Organization

Founded by Richa Singh, She Is India is a platform for every Indian woman who strives to or aims to let the world see them beyond societal tags. Women are the very foundation of our human race. For thousands of years, across hundreds of cultures and amongst numerous  beliefs, men have revered and worshipped women; whether in the form of Mother Nature, Durga, Kali, or Shakti in Hindu mythology or in the form of Athena, the goddess of war from Greek mythology or the mighty Amazonian Warrior Women. Cultures have woven legends around women and poets have inked pages in their praises. Every Indian has grown up reciting khub ladi mardani who toh Jhansi waali rani thi in reverence of Rani Lakshmi Bai, the warrior queen of Jhansi.

While societies have put such powerful women on pedestals, somewhere down the line, they forgot to extend the same respect to women in their everyday lives. For centuries, the common woman has had to fight for their basic rights; be it their right to education, their right to vote, or even the very basic right to stay alive. Domestic violence is another battlefield that women have been and still are fighting every day, silently, invisible.

Tapping into the theme of Women’s Empowerment against Domestic Violence, She Is India, therefore, provides Indian women with an opportunity to bring out the best of themselves by enabling them a platform to voice their opinions and break those chains of taboos, stereotypes and glass ceilings. As women’s representation matters, the platform’s motto is “She indeed is India,” It takes bold steps to give every Indian woman a chance to be the change they want to see in the world.

To know more, visit: https://mrsindia.co.in/

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