Rachel Gupta makes history as first Indian to win Miss Grand International 2024

Find out more about Rachel Gupta and her journey to winning Miss Grand International 2024

Rachel Gupta's groundbreaking victory came on October 25

Rachel Gupta’s groundbreaking victory came on October 25 (Source: Instagram/Rachel Gupta)

In a historic moment for Indian pageantry, 20-year-old Rachel Gupta from Jalandhar has become the first Indian to win the prestigious Miss Grand International 2024 crown. The groundbreaking victory came on October 25, as she competed against contestants from more than 70 countries.

Adding to her remarkable achievement, Gupta also secured the Grand Pageants Choice Award 2024. Minhas, her uncle, revealed, “Rachel now holds the record for the most number of global pageant crown wins by an Indian and is currently tied with former Miss Universe Lara Dutta.”

“WE DID IT! We won the first Golden Crown in Indian history,” Gupta shared enthusiastically on Instagram following her win. “Thank you so much to everyone who believed in me! I promise, I will not let you down. I vow to be a Queen whose reign you’ll remember forever.”

The pageant organisers celebrated her victory on social media, praising her exceptional qualities: “She embodies beauty, elegance, and true talent. May her journey to success shine even brighter with every step she takes.”

Rising star in international pageantry

This isn’t Gupta’s first taste of international success. Previously, she had claimed the ‘Miss Super Talent of the World’ title in 2022, demonstrating her consistent excellence in international competitions. Her journey to the Miss Grand International crown began after winning the Miss Grand India title in August 2024.

With over a million Instagram followers, Gupta has already established herself as a significant social media influencer. In her new role as Miss Grand International, she will serve as a global ambassador promoting peace and stability across the world.

Inspiring the next generation

In a 2022 interview following her Miss Super Talent of the World win, an 18-year-old Gupta shared her vision for empowering others. She was quoted in reports, saying, “I understand that a lot of women hesitate in pursuing their dreams. Either due to the baggage that they carry or lack of faith. I hope my journey inspires and encourages them to have aspirations, break the chains and work towards accomplishing their dreams.”

Minhas mentioned, “This is the first time in Miss Grand International’s history that an Indian won the golden crown and it’s a super proud moment for Jalandhar, Punjab and India. Her performance was exceptional and she maintained the top position throughout.”

While pursuing her pageantry career, Gupta has maintained focus on her academics and entrepreneurial endeavours, setting an example for young women looking to balance multiple aspirations.

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As the 12th Miss Grand International and the first winner from India, Gupta’s historic victory marks a significant milestone in Indian pageantry history, opening new doors for future generations of Indian contestants on the global stage.

Rachel Gupta, a 20-year-old from Jalandhar, India, made history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Miss Grand International 2024 title on October 25th. Her exceptional performance outshined contestants from over 70 countries, solidifying her position as a rising star in the international pageant scene.

Gupta’s journey to the Miss Grand International crown began with her victory at Miss Grand India 2024 in August. Prior to that, she had already showcased her talent and poise by winning the Miss Super Talent of the World title in 2022.

With a substantial following of over a million on Instagram, Gupta is a prominent social media influencer. As the newly crowned Miss Grand International, she will now assume the role of a global ambassador, dedicated to promoting peace and stability worldwide.

Beyond her pageant achievements, Gupta is a well-rounded individual with a keen interest in academics and entrepreneurship. Her inspiring journey has motivated countless young women to pursue their dreams, break free from societal expectations, and strive for excellence.

Gupta’s historic win is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in herself. It has opened new doors for Indian women in the world of international pageantry, inspiring future generations to follow in her footsteps.