Reclaiming the Core of Pageantry: A Panel Discussion
- The Pageant Gurus null
- Sep 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 13
The Pageant Gurus hosted an engaging panel discussion titled “Reclaiming the Core of Pageantry.” This event brought together former contestants, experts, and advocates. Together, we re-examined what pageantry stands for today and where it should head in the future.
A Diverse Panel with a Common Goal
The panel featured voices from various backgrounds, including:
Ankita Mukherjee: Advocate and Posh specialist. She emphasized the importance of contracts and safeguarding contestants’ rights.
Tasneem Raza: Miss Universe India 2025 finalist and Mrs. India Planet 2023. She spoke about breaking stereotypes and creating meaningful impact.
Vaamshi Uday: Miss Universe India Karnataka 2025, lawyer, and Beauty with a Purpose awardee. He highlighted the importance of being intentional and taking feedback to refine and evolve.
Kosh Hewage: National Director of Mr. International Egypt, Deputy National Director Miss Universe Egypt, and Celebrity Designer. He brought a fresh perspective on transparency, impartial treatment, and trusted communication between organizations and queens.
Watch the panel co-create the future of pageantry. You don't want to miss this!
Key Themes of the Discussion
1. Pageantry – Dream or Delusion?
Panelists reflected on whether modern pageants still live up to the aspirational promise of empowering women. Or have they become disillusioning spectacles? Contestants spoke candidly about their journeys. They shared the highs of representing their states and countries and the lows of unmet expectations and organizational politics.
2. Contracts and Rights
Ankita stressed that contracts form the backbone of a contestant’s journey. From opportunities to restrictions, transparency and fairness must be central to how organizations treat their queens. This is crucial for ensuring a positive experience for all involved.
3. Sponsorships and Commercialization
The conversation touched on how sponsorships, while necessary for sustainability, often overshadow the purpose of pageantry. The panel questioned whether brand deals dilute queens’ authenticity. Are organizations prioritizing business over empowerment? This is a vital question for the future of pageantry.
4. Social Advocacy vs. Showmanship
Both Tasneem and Vaamshi shared how advocacy projects, such as cervical cancer awareness campaigns, often get sidelined. They noted that these important causes are frequently overshadowed by gowns, costumes, and media appearances. They called for pageants to realign with meaningful social work.
5. Inclusivity and Controversies
In a lively “Yay or Nay” round, panelists debated hot-button issues. Topics included the participation of trans women, the overload of subtitles, and the monotony of pageant gowns. The diversity of opinions underscored the evolving expectations of global audiences.
6. Transparency and Responsibility
Kosh urged national directors to foster open communication. He emphasized the need to avoid favoritism and genuinely support candidates. The panel agreed that pageants should not just produce spokesmodels but ambassadors of change.
The Way Forward
The discussion ended on a hopeful note. Pageantry, the panel concluded, remains a powerful platform. However, it needs recalibration—returning to its essence of empowering women, championing causes, and celebrating individuality beyond appearances.
As The Pageant Gurus summarized, “We wanted to give a voice, not just show our love for pageants. Empowerment is easy to say—what matters is action.”
The Transformative Power of Pageantry
Pageantry has the potential to transform lives. It empowers individuals to find their voice, build confidence, and make a difference in their communities. This transformative power is what we must focus on as we move forward.
The journey through pageantry can be challenging. Contestants face immense pressure and scrutiny. However, the rewards can be life-changing. Many former contestants have gone on to become leaders in their fields, advocates for important causes, and role models for future generations.
Building a Supportive Community
Creating a supportive community is essential for nurturing talent and fostering growth. We must encourage open dialogue and collaboration among contestants, organizations, and the audience. Together, we can create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Embracing Change
As we look to the future, embracing change is crucial. The world is evolving, and so should pageantry. We need to adapt to the changing landscape while staying true to the core values that define us. This means prioritizing empowerment, inclusivity, and authenticity.
Celebrating Individuality
Every contestant brings a unique story and perspective to the stage. Celebrating individuality is key to showcasing the diverse beauty of our world. Let’s embrace the differences that make us unique and use them to inspire others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the panel discussion “Reclaiming the Core of Pageantry” was a powerful reminder of the importance of our mission. We must continue to advocate for change, support one another, and celebrate the transformative power of pageantry. Together, we can ensure that pageantry remains a platform for empowerment and personal growth.
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