Panchali Gupta Babber
Pageant . Movies . Success
Originally from Assam, India, PANCHALI GUPTA started modelling at the age of 14 before winning regional pageant titles like Miss Guwathi, Miss Assam, Miss Northeast and Gladrags Mega Model. The national level gymnast also starred in regional and the Bollywood cinema with movies like Fashion, Jai Veeru and Sivajee, and an English movie, Rocking Meera. After making a name on the Indian runway by walking for top-notch designers, she became a highlight in the media by winning the Homemaker India title, a one of a kind pageant held in honour of homemakers for the many roles they play effortlessly in our lives. Her next stop is Miss United Nations where she will be representing India in July next year.
GLOSS had a quick chat Gupta about the life of a pageant winner and how she keeps up with the all the responsibilities while holding on to the crown.
What responsibilities lie on a pageant holder once crowned?
Winning the crown comes with a lot of responsibilities. In an instant, you are in the public eye and become a role model for many aspiring beauty queens. How a winner conducts herself is very important. Apart from that, she should use the platform for causes close to her heart and carry out her duties with integrity.
What according to you is a beauty queen?
A beauty queen is a woman of substance and one who is strong and confident.
They say that there is a woman behind a successful man. Who is behind your success?
I have been very lucky to have extremely encouraging people around in the beginning of my career. My mom was my support system and now I am blessed to have a very supportive husband, Vijay Babber who is also a freelance fashion stylist. He stands by me in everything I wish to do and achieve.
How do you keep fit?
I work out and try to eat well. I have a very active lifestyle as well.
What is your typical day like?
My typical day starts with waking up to two hungry babies – my pets, Stella who is a dog and Cuddles a cat. After feeding them, I catch up on current affairs, do regular household chores and go to the gym. My social calendar is also often full so there is something every day.
Besides modeling what is it that keeps you busy?
I love to cook for my family and friends. I also enjoy spending time outdoors.
How difficult is it to prepare for a pageant?
It is not the preparation to become a pageant title as much as your determination which can divert at times. You must remain extremely focused and do all that you need to do to win.
Any advice for the married and unmarried women out there who would like to participate in contests and shows and make a career out of it?
Identify what you want and aim for it. Never lose your focus and don’t let failure undermine you. Nothing is impossible if we put our heart and mind to it.
